Former AUS Chancellor Dr. Peter Heath passes away

Dr. Peter Heath, the third chancellor of American University of Sharjah, passed away yesterday at his home in Bryn Mawr, USA, after a long battle with cancer.

Dr. Heath is survived by his wife Marianne and his two children.

A reputed scholar and administrator, Dr. Heath was admired for his relentless dedication and immense contribution to AUS during his tenure. Selected at the conclusion of an extensive eight-month search process, Dr. Heath was appointed as the third AUS chancellor by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council, Ruler of Sharjah and President of AUS, in August 2008. In a statement issued on the occasion, the Sharjah Ruler said, "Dr. Heath was chosen for the position because of his demonstrated ability as a scholar and administrator in both the United States and the Middle East."

His extensive experience in the academic field in this region, along with his educational background and great commitment to education, helped him carve a special place among his contemporaries. AUS continues to pursue and build on many of the initiatives that he started during his tenure.

Prior to joining AUS, Dr. Heath was provost at the American University of Beirut, where he played a leading role in the rebuilding of that distinguished institution. Dr. Heath received his PhD in Near Eastern Languages and Civilizations from Harvard University and was the author of number of monographs as well as some 30 articles in refereed professional journals.

AUS Chancellor Dr. Bjorn Kjerfve has conveyed the AUS community's deepest condolences to his family. "We pray that the Almighty grant his soul eternal peace and give his loved ones the strength to bear this irreparable loss," said Dr. Kjerfve.