September at AUK

U.S. Consul General Visits AUK

On September 9, 2025, the University welcomed U.S. Consul General in Erbil, Gwendolyn Green, for a campus visit. Received by AUK leadership, she learned about the University’s bachelor’s and new master’s program, student demographics, and initiatives supported by the U.S. Department of State, including She Leads and She Is an Entrepreneur. Consul General Green toured Leopard Radio, where she joined students for an interview, and explored AUK’s bookstore, featuring mascot-themed merchandise. Expressing strong support for AUK’s mission, she praised the University’s role in advancing American-style higher education and will return to tour the facilities and further engage with the students.

CPHS Launches Fall 2025 Lecture Series

On September 16, 2025, the Center for Peace and Human Security (CPHS) at AUK opened its Fall Lecture Series with a talk by Bonnie Miller, former Professor of Social Work and Psychology and Director of Action for Community Empowerment in Syria (ACES). Her lecture, “Healing in the Aftermath,” explored how trauma impacts communities in conflict settings and the value of culturally sensitive, trauma-informed approaches such as stress management, social-emotional learning, and positive parenting. More than 80 students and staff attended the session, which concluded with a Q&A on gender-based violence and post-conflict recovery.

Stirling School Administration and its Star Students Visit Campus

The University welcomed Stirling School’s administration and three of their star students for a campus visit on September 22, 2025. The delegation was received by AUK President Dr. Randall Rhodes, Director of Admissions and Registration Dr. Ibrahim Hussein, Admissions Recruiter Mr. Ahmad Balta, and Director of Communications Ms. Fatima Osman.  A highlight of the visit was the participation of Stirling’s debate champions, who shared their aspirations and experiences, reflecting the promise of future leaders in Kurdistan.

CAPA Expands She Leads Program to Erbil

AUK’s Center for Academic and Professional Advancement (CAPA) launched the She Leads Women Leadership Certificate Program in Erbil, in partnership with Salahaddin University and with the support of the U.S. Department of State’s grant funding, titled “Supporting American-style Higher Education in Iraq.” Thirty participants, selected through a competitive process, joined the program’s growing network with its first program offering in Erbil.  In her opening remarks, CAPA Director Loucine Hayes highlighted the program’s vision of equipping women with leadership skills and practical tools. Over the next twelve weeks, participants will engage in interactive training, group discussions, and mentorship.

She Is an Entrepreneur: 50 Women Graduate from CAPA Program

The Center for Academic and Professional Advancement (CAPA) celebrated the graduation of 50 women from the She Is an Entrepreneur program, supported by the U.S. Department of State’s grant titled “Supporting American-style Higher Education.” Designed for IDPs, refugees, and women from disadvantaged backgrounds, the year-long program provided training in entrepreneurship, digital literacy, finance, and business planning. The ceremony featured alumna Ms. Astera Ghazi, CAPA Director Ms. Loucine Hayes, and Deputy Consul General Ms. Pamela Hack. Graduates showcased their business ideas, underscoring AUK’s role in fostering entrepreneurship as a driver of growth and social change.

Three Perspectives: Kurdish Art at AUK

In partnership with the Kurdistan Center for Arts and Culture (KCAC), the University hosted Three Perspectives, an exhibition featuring Kurdish artists Bahaaddin Mohammadi Rad, Sali Mezori, and Asso Mamzada. From September 8 to 15, guests viewed paintings, sculptures, illustrations, and graphics celebrating the artists’ skill and creativity. The opening included a panel discussion as well as a live drawing session by Bahaaddin Mohammadi Rad.

Students Lead Initiative for a Smoke-Free Campus

After voicing concerns about secondhand smoke, the Student Government teamed up with the University to launch a new Smoking Restriction policy. To spread the word, throughout September, the Office of Student Affairs hosted interactive displays with info cards, ribbons, a fun photo backdrop, and even sweet treats. Signs now designate smoke-free areas. Next, the Health Promotion Officer will host a workshop with tips and resources for quitting. Thanks to student voices, AUK is taking steps toward becoming a smoke-free, welcoming environment for all.

AUK Hosts Successful Blood Donation Drive

On September 30, 2025, the Office of Student Affairs (OSA) hosted a successful Blood Donation Drive in partnership with the Directorate of Health and AUK’s College of Nursing. Following a motivational session on campus on September 24, the event resulted in 40 people donating blood. The Duhok Directorate of Health provided staff, an ambulance, and medical equipment; the Nursing students managed registration, health checks, and donations. The drive underscored the University’s commitment to public health, civic engagement, and student leadership.

Alumni Spotlight: Mohammed Abdulazeez

Mohammed Abdulazeez, a proud graduate of AUK, exemplifies the impact of AUK’s commitment to bridging education and career opportunities. Through a partnership between AUK and First Iraqi Bank (FIB), Mohammed began an internship at FIB’s Baghdad headquarters in April 2025, gaining hands-on experience in banking operations and financial processes. By July, he was appointed full-time as a Junior Accountant at the Erbil branch. Mohammed credits his success to the skills, guidance, and support he received at the University.

Staff Spotlight: Dr. Ibrahim Hussein

This month, AUK recognizes Ibrahim Hussein, Director of the Admissions and Registration Department, who is completing his Doctorate in Business Administration with a concentration in Business Intelligence and Data Analytics at Westcliff University in California. His research, “Leveraging Business Intelligence and Predictive Analytics to Model Student Success,” explores how factors like high school grades, TOEFL scores, and school type can predict achievement and retention. By classifying applicants as High Potential, Mid-Level, or At Risk, his work offers AUK a powerful, data-driven framework to improve admissions, support early interventions, and strengthen student success.