Chaldean American Association for Health Professionals (CAAHP-USA) Visit to AUK

On May 12, 2025, AUK leadership welcomed the Chaldean American Association for Health Professionals (CAAHP-USA) to the American University of Kurdistan (AUK). The delegation was received by President Dr. Randall Rhodes, Secretary of the Board of Trustees Dr. Honar Issa, Provost Dr. Triona Croke, Vice President of Finance and Administration Mr. Omed Zawity, and Dean of the College of Nursing Dr. Jervy Bernardino. The visit aimed to introduce the Association to the College of Nursing’s mission, curriculum, simulation lab, and community-health initiatives, positioning AUK as a regional benchmark for evidence-based, competency-driven nursing education.

The delegation toured AUK’s high-tech Simulation Lab, where faculty demonstrated how full-body manikins replicate real-life medical scenarios by breathing, speaking, and reacting in real time. The group also visited other campus locations, including the library and AUK Store.

The visit sparked conversations around potential collaboration in areas such as U.S.-based clinical placements for students, career pathways for AUK nursing graduates, and joint community-health initiatives. Although no formal agreement was signed, both sides expressed interest in future partnerships.

The Office of Advancement shared that all current nursing students are on donor-funded scholarships and noted the Kurdistan Regional Government’s recognition of AUK’s College of Nursing as a valuable contributor to improving healthcare in the region.

The visit went beyond introductions—it laid the groundwork for impactful cooperation that merges international expertise, diaspora engagement, and AUK’s commitment to developing the next generation of healthcare professionals.