AUK Delegation Visits U.S.

Duhok, Kurdistan Region – From September 18 to 26, 2022, a delegation from the American University of Kurdistan (AUK), including the University’s President, Dr. Randall Rhodes, Secretary to the Board, Dr. Honar Issa, and Director of Advancement, Manal Issa, traveled to three U.S. cities to raise awareness of the institution, forge links for future collaborations, and seek opportunities for faculty, staff, and student mobility.

In New York, the AUK delegation met with governmental and non-governmental entities for awareness raising on an international and regional scale and to identify initiatives of mutual interest

In Dallas, a reception was held on the campus of Southern Methodist University (SMU), highlighting a presentation by Dr. Rhodes on the topic of the K-19 Task Force on Education and its mission to assist in the reform of the educational system in Kurdistan. Attendees included the members of the Kurdish diaspora and faculty, staff, and students of SMU.

Last, the delegation visited San Diego, specifically El Cajon. At the reception, Dr. Rhodes presented a general introduction of AUK to the members of the Kurdish diaspora.

In both Dallas and San Diego, connections were established with diasporan communities and allies to generate interest in founding a global network of chapters of Friends of AUK, which will serve to publicize and support the University.

Dr. Randall Rhodes stated, “as AUK aspires to become an international university, it is important to meet with people in the U.S. and elsewhere to forge links that will bring opportunities for collaboration and advancement for AUK and Kurdistan. We hope to make more visits to the U.S. to increase awareness of AUK and its mission”.