Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of the American University of Sharjah (AUS), recently paid tribute to the dedication and loyalty of long-serving AUS employees at the annual Staff Appreciation Dinner.
During the event, ninety-eight employees were honored for their commitment, with around 500 AUS staff in attendance. Sheikha Bodour recognized 16 staff members for their 25 years of service, 62 staff for 20 years, and 20 staff for 15 years of service.
“I am inspired by the unwavering dedication and diligence demonstrated by each of you throughout the year. Your steadfast commitment not only fuels our present successes but also lays the foundation for our future endeavors,” said Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS.
The event also featured a special video titled “AUS Students to Staff,” showcasing 14 alumni who now serve as AUS staff, highlighting the university’s strong community bonds. Additionally, AUS staff members Medhat Al-Maaliki and Nader Diarbakirli performed classical Arabic songs, adding to the cultural vibrancy of the evening.
Virgilio Mateo Jr., a Senior Officer of Student Engagement at AUS, was honored for dedicating 25 years of his life in service to the university. Expressing his gratitude, Mateo described AUS as more than just an institution but a home and a family.
“I am so grateful for the acknowledgment of my 25th year of service to AUS; it has meant so much to me. Having spent almost half of my lifetime at AUS is such a wonderful and rewarding experience,” Mateo said, reflecting on his journey with the university.