AUS Giving Day unites the university in a powerful display of campus-wide solidarity

On November 12–13, 2024, American University of Sharjah (AUS) hosted its 48 Hours of Impact Giving Campaign, with strong support from Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS. Sheikha Bodour played an active role in the event, which was organized by AUS’ Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs to support AUS students with disabilities, those facing financial and social challenges within their communities, and students from underserved backgrounds.

The 48 hours of impact, titled “Pay It Forward,” began on November 12 with an online campaign encouraging the entire AUS community—students, alumni, faculty, staff, corporate partners and friends of the university—to unite in the spirit of generosity. The Giving Day celebration, held on November 13, from 4:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the AUS Sports Pavilion, was the culmination of the 48 Hours of Impact campaign. This final gathering brought the AUS community together to recognize and celebrate the collective generosity and commitment that fueled this remarkable campaign.

Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, highlighted the importance of the campaign, saying: "AUS Giving Day is a wonderful opportunity to come together, celebrate the spirit of giving and demonstrate what’s possible when we share our resources to open doors for others. We are especially grateful to the many alumni and partners who believe in AUS' mission and generously help pave the way for the next generation of students. It was inspiring to see our community unite to make a meaningful difference in both AUS' future and the lives of our students for years to come."

The first 24 hours of the event focused on promoting the Giving Day online portal. Several screens across campus displayed real-time donations, segmented by college and school, creating a sense of friendly competition among AUS' colleges. The portal remained active on the second day, which also featured several engaging community activities designed to raise funds for key scholarship initiatives at AUS. These events and activities included:

• the Bazaar 4 Good, a pop-up market showcasing products from alumni, students and community-owned businesses
• the Walk for Impact, led by H.E. Sheikha Bodour, which included the creation of a stunning live art mural gifted by AW Rostamani Group
• an auction featuring sports memorabilia autographed by Bosnian footballer Miralem Pjanić
• the AUS Commemorative Bench initiative, a total of seven benches, valued at AED 700,000, were generously donated by alumni and friends of AUS, including Haleema Al Owais, Yousuf Saleem, Dr. Fathima Saleem, Hind Seddiqi and Feras Al Sadek. Their names will be inscribed on benches which will be placed on the AUS campus near a college of their choice
• the Mosaic for Scholarship, an original artwork donated by prominent artist Diaa Allam was transformed into a mosaic, with attendees able to purchase individual pieces of this mosaic and add them back to the canvas, collectively completing the artwork. All proceeds from the mosaic pieces will support scholarships

The two-day event also featured additional activities organized by the AUS community, including the AUS Alumni Association and the AUS Student Council, which was represented by the Emirati Cultural Club, the Pakistani Cultural Club and the Games Club. Proceeds from their various activities also went to supporting the campaign causes.

The event also featured a special recognition of Sharjah Municipality for its generous commitment to Giving Day, which included allocating the parking fees collected on November 12 and 13 towards scholarships for AUS students in need. This contribution demonstrates Sharjah Municipality’s dedication to fostering educational access and forms part of a longer-term partnership with AUS to advance inclusivity in higher education.

“We are deeply honored to continue our partnership with American University of Sharjah for the second consecutive year, supporting the university’s Giving Day,” stated Obaid Saeed Al Tunaiji, Director General of Sharjah Municipality. “Giving back to education stands as one of our primary pillars in our commitment to enriching our community. AUS shares our vision of nurturing the leaders of tomorrow, and we could not envision a more fitting partner in our shared dedication to empowering future generations. Together, we are proud to invest in opportunities that inspire and equip our youth to drive positive change.”

AUS Giving Day is more than just an event—it celebrates solidarity, generosity and the transformative power of education. By participating in the 48 Hours of Impact Giving Campaign, attendees contributed to a cause that will make a lasting difference in the lives of AUS’ students, their communities and the future of the university.

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