SHARJAH, (Pakistan Point News - 30th May, 2025) The American University of Sharjah (AUS) Board of Trustees, chaired by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS, convened to review and approve a series of strategic actions focused on leadership development, academic excellence and financial sustainability.
Following the meeting, Sheikha Bodour said the board’s decisions reflect a commitment to building a resilient and academically distinguished institution, adding, “Excellence in education stems from investment in people, thoughtful planning and principled governance.”
AUS Chancellor Dr Tod A. Laursen added, “With strengthened leadership, clear academic priorities and disciplined financial planning, AUS is well positioned to lead with purpose in a rapidly evolving education landscape.”
Among the meeting’s outcomes, the board approved the appointment of Dr Matthias Ruth as Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost. Dr Ruth is an experienced academic leader known for his work in interdisciplinary research and institutional strategy, with previous roles at the University of York, University of Alberta and Northeastern University.
The board also approved a new round of rolling contracts and academic promotions to support faculty development, reflecting the university’s continued focus on retaining top academic talent. An updated Human Resources Policy Manual was adopted to align with international standards in higher education governance.
In financial governance, the board endorsed the general operating budget for the 2025–2026 fiscal year, along with dedicated budgets for research, graduate studies and capital projects. It also approved the standalone financial statements of AUS Enterprises, a holding company supporting the university’s long-term financial sustainability, for the 15-month period ending 31st August, 2024.
To further strengthen its governance framework, the board welcomed three new members: Dr Ebtesam Almazrouei, Executive Director at the Technology Innovation Institute and Chair of the UN’s AI for Good Impact Initiative; Dr Tony F. Chan, former President of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology; and Mohamed Khadiri, Chief Executive Officer of Bank of Sharjah.
With these strategic decisions, AUS reinforces its role as a regional and global leader in higher education—dedicated to academic excellence, research, and preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to the future.
