In this issue, we look at AUC-ians serving Egypt.

When we think of AUC, we obviously think of education — a good education. But those who know AUC, and AUCians, well understand that service is just as important as education in the life of the University: service to our local communities and a dedication to broader causes at the national and international levels — a form of “effective citizenship.”

Charles Watson, AUC’s founding president, envisioned AUC — among other things — to be of service to Egypt, preparing its youth for later positions in life. AUC graduates, he emphasized time and again, do not just earn academic degrees, but are driven by initiative, leadership and integrity of character — whether on campus or in their communities. “No one may secure the diploma of this University without doing more than merely pass examinations on [a] subject matter,” Watson said. “He must give evidence of a total development of life and character that makes him worthy of being called a college graduate. … It is our aim to develop scholars who will have in their lives the mainspring of initiative which will say, ‘I know, I can and I will.’”

AUC’s local contributions in Egypt are numerous, from student club activities and faculty research to alumni initiatives and University outreach. While we can’t cover everything in one issue, we try to shed light on some striking examples that are really making a difference and #MakingAUCProud.

Public school reform, blended learning, employment opportunities, transportation solutions and cleaner energy — students, alumni and faculty are making their presence felt in all walks of life. Our faculty are also leading the way with their research: preserving Egypt’s legacy through archaeology and historic inscriptions, fighting diseases such as hepatitis C, exploring Red Sea genomics, using nanotechnology for solar energy and working as ministers to bring about positive change.

The University as a whole — with its libraries, schools, centers, programs and courses — is working toward a better Egypt, just by doing what it does every day.

One of the stories in this issue that is close to my heart is that of scholarship and fellowship students coming to AUC from different Egyptian governorates. Reading about their determination and future plans for the advancement of Egypt makes me feel happy and proud that such talented youth are part of our beloved country and our diverse campus community.

Serving Egypt is only one way that shows how AUCians are pioneers in their own right, upholding Watson’s motto of “I know, I can and I will.”
We hope you enjoy the issue.

P.S. Watch out for AUC’s yearlong centennial celebrations coming up soon, starting February 2019! Read more about it in “How to Turn 100.”