AURAK Holds First Virtual Academic Award Ceremony

The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) held its Academic Award Ceremony, which took place online for the first time because of the COVID-19 epidemic.

AURAK live streamed the 2019-20 event on YouTube as a precaution against the spread of the virus.

Prof. Stephen Wilhite, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success and Provost, presided over the ceremony, which saw the announcement of the winners of the University’s awards for students’ academic work.

“This year we plan to create a very special academic awards convocation for those exemplary students who have earned one of these prestigious awards as well as the families who have supported and encouraged the student to such a successful level of achievement,” Prof. Wilhite said.

“Our on-campus convocation plans had to be modified this year due to COVID-19.  We felt we could not, however, conclude the academic year without providing this appreciation and celebratory event for students and families. To do so, we have created an approach to allow you to view the video of your award along with your family,” he added.

“I want to pay special tribute to the families who have supported each student and have been the foundation of their success. We are honored to have the opportunity to teach your children,” he said. “But we understand that parents are the first teachers and home is the child’s first and most important classroom. We know that the best predictor of student success is the extent to which families encourage and support learning. Therefore we thank parents and other family members for your tremendous support.”

The names of the winners of the academic awards were then read out in the virtual ceremony.

The Provost reminded students that they could collect their framed certificates and trophies from the Student Success Office at AURAK when the campus reopens.

AURAK’s first virtual Academic Award Ceremony can be viewed at this link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1lYnKZNdVOI