Dr. Richard Gassan, Associate Professor of History at American University of Sharjah (AUS), and a friend passed away Monday evening, March 2, 2015, in a tragic traffic accident near campus.

"It is with deep sadness that I share the news of the passing away yesterday of our colleague and friend Dr. Richard Gassan," said AUS Chancellor Dr. Björn Kjerfve. "As an admired colleague and member of the AUS community, Richard will be fondly remembered for his dedication and commitment toward his students and his pleasant disposition," he said."His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qassimi, Supreme Council Member, Ruler of Sharjah and President of American University of Sharjah (AUS), personally called me yesterday evening to convey his condolences to the AUS community and to Richard's family on this irreparable loss," the Chancellor added.

Dr. Gassan and his friend were both struck by an automobile while riding their bicycles near campus and died instantly.

Dr. Gassan joined the Department of International Studies of the AUS College of Arts and Sciences in Fall Semester 2005. He was a valued member of the AUS faculty who will be fondly remembered for a genuine dedication to students, a wry sense of humor, and an ever-present smile, said AUS Interim Provost Kevin Mitchell.

Dr. Gassan is survived by his mother, Martha Oehler, and his elder brother, Larry Gassan.