Sharjah: American University of Sharjah (AUS) honoured the achievements of its Class of Spring 2026, the university's largest graduating class to date, during two commencement ceremonies held at University City Hall in University City of Sharjah, in the presence of H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS. The occasion brought together graduates, families, faculty, staff and guests to celebrate a defining milestone for 842 graduates as they completed their AUS journey and prepared to begin a new chapter as members of the university's global alumni community.
According to Emirates News Agency, H.H. Sheikha Bodour emphasized that graduation marks the beginning of a new phase of possibility and responsibility. She highlighted that the Class of 2026 leaves AUS at a time of significant change, equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and capacity to influence the future with integrity. Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, noted that commencement is a meaningful moment for AUS, showcasing the impact of the university's mission. He stressed that the graduates leave with critical thinking skills, integrity, confidence, and purpose, joining a reputable AUS alumni community.
During the morning ceremony, electrical engineering graduate Daniel Zakaria Indrawes addressed the audience with 'Leading Through Uncertainty,' discussing the transition from university structure to a world without fixed guidelines. Finance graduate Ariana Karzai spoke in the evening ceremony about 'Reading the World at AUS,' drawing on her journey from Afghanistan to the UAE and the responsibility of education.
The commencement also recognized AUS faculty contributions, with Dr. Vernon Pederson, Dr. Yousef Salamin, and Dr. Adil Tamimi receiving Professor Emeritus titles, and Dr. Jamal Abdalla being recognized as Distinguished Professor. Outstanding student achievements were celebrated, with the President's Cup awarded to Timothy Joseph, Abdallah Mohamad Saleh, and Joud N. H. Hamdan. The Chancellor's Cup was awarded to Muhammad Vidha and Sanjana Bharwani for their academic achievement and contributions to student life.
A historic milestone was marked by alumna Rana Jamshed, the first graduate of AUS's PhD in Business Administration with a concentration in finance programme. Her journey began in 1997 with AUS's pioneer student cohort, and she now holds three degrees from AUS.
The commencement also saw the first cohort of AUS's Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences and Sustainability programme graduate, reflecting the university's focus on sustainability and future-focused education. The Spring 2026 class included 842 students, with 714 undergraduates and 128 graduates from 55 nationalities.
As the Class of Spring 2026 joins the AUS alumni community, they become part of a global network recognized for professional readiness and impact. In the QS World University Rankings 2027, AUS ranks first in the UAE for employer reputation and among the top three for employment outcomes, demonstrating the strong confidence employers have in AUS graduates.