Together We Rise: AUS Giving Day 2025 unites the community in support of student scholarships

American University of Sharjah (AUS) hosted AUS Giving Day 2025 on the evening of November 15, bringing together students, alumni, faculty, staff, partners and friends of the university to support scholarships for deserving students under the Together We Rise campaign.

Organized by the Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs (OAAA), this year’s Giving Day reflected the university’s culture of generosity and commitment to expanding educational access. 

“AUS Giving Day reflects the spirit of our community coming together to create opportunities for others,” said Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS. “This year’s theme, Together We Rise, perfectly captures both the AUS ethos and the spirit of the UAE’s Year of Community. When we lift each other up, we strengthen the fabric of our society. Every contribution helps open doors for students who might not otherwise have access to an AUS education, ensuring that talent and ambition, not circumstance, define their future. We extend our deep gratitude to everyone helping to pave the way for a brighter, bolder future for AUS.”

The celebration featured a vibrant lineup of activities designed to engage the AUS community and highlight the impact of giving. Guests explored the Bazaar 4 Good Popup Market, enjoyed music and live performances, and took part in creative workshops, including Kufi Script with Hessa, Matcha Workshop by Catcha Matcha and Wonder Minds by AUS alumna Amira Al Alami. Additional workshops included the Musk Blending Workshop by Sakin and the DIY Fridge Magnets Workshop by StuDIYo Lab, alongside family activities and arts-and-crafts sessions open to all ages. In addition, the AUS Student Council supported the Game Activation area.

This year, OAAA launched the Impact Tile initiative, which allows donors to secure a personalized tile on a prominent campus pathway in exchange for a donation of AED 100,000. The campaign joins the university’s existing Tree Legacy Initiative and Commemorative Benches under the AUS Legacy Program, offering alumni meaningful ways to leave a lasting mark on campus. Inaugural contributors to this initiative include AUS alumna Hind Seddiqi and another AUS graduate who wished to remain anonymous. For those unable to attend in person, donations could also be made through the university’s digital giving portal, continuing the inclusive model introduced last year.

Reflecting on the life-changing impact of scholarships, as part of the Rise Talks, a previous recipient from Gaza, Nour Abu Olwan, said: “Receiving a scholarship from the American University of Sharjah has been a golden opportunity that truly changed my life and opened countless doors for both personal and academic growth. To me, AUS is not just a university; it’s my second home, a place that inspired me, supported me, and taught me that there are no limits to dreams when opportunity is given.”

The Rise Talk segment also included a chat by Alumnus Sherif Ismail, co-founder and CEO of WakaTech, on “Why Opportunity Matters as Much as Effort.” The segment ended with a “Built to Give - Why the Future of Business is Purpose First” by Rania Masri El Khatib, CEO of The Giving Movement.

The evening culminated in a special performance by the Syrian folkloric Takkat Band, organized in partnership with the Syrian Cultural Club. Proceeds from the concert supported education and the rebuilding of schools in Syria through The Big Heart Foundation. The concert segment was sponsored by MAG Group, Marmara Jewellery, SATA, and The Rotary Club of Dubai.

Ultimately, AUS Giving Day 2025 celebrated what can be achieved when a community comes together across countries and generations with a shared purpose.

For more information about giving at AUS, visit www.aus.edu/giving.