AUK Giving Day 2024 Sparks Philanthropic Spirit

AUK Giving Day, held on March 7, 2024, on the campus of The American University of Kurdistan (AUK), celebrated an important initiative that brought together students, alumni, faculty, staff, and members of the community. Now in its second year, AUK Giving Day has become a seminal event at AUK, epitomizing the institution’s commitment to cultivating community engagement for philanthropy.

Addressing the gathering, AUK President Dr. Randall Rhodes expressed the significance of the event, stating, “Today, we celebrate a sense of community engagement, student involvement, and giving back to the communities that are integral to us. As we commemorate our 10th anniversary, March is dedicated to the patriotic building of Kurdistan, shaping a better future for all.”

AUK Vice President for Advancement, Manal Issa, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of celebrating the kindness and generosity of the AUK community. “AUK Giving Day is a testament to the support of our students and the institution itself,” expressing gratitude to all who contributed to the cause.

Central to the festivities was a concert by international artist Dashni Morad; proceeds were directed towards financial aid for AUK student scholars. The event also provided a platform to showcase AUK alumni businesses. Alumni supporting the event through sponsorship and in-kind donations included Vina Nawzad (Shiyaw Beauty Salon), Abdulrahman Hassan (Mado), and Van Mikhail (Outro Lado). Donors to the AUK Giving Day concert were presented with a symbolic gesture—a plant nurtured from the AUK Garden, symbolizing the institution’s resilience and growth.

AUK Giving Day is a groundbreaking initiative, redefining community philanthropy. This substantial growth in fundraising programming highlights the growing support and enthusiasm for philanthropic initiatives and community building among members of the AUK community.