Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor, American University of Sharjah, UAE

Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of American University of Sharjah (AUS), joins guest host Dr. Ashraf Mahate in this week’s conversation. They explore Tod’s career in and around academia, from faculty at Duke University, to founding president of Khalifa University, and chief academic officer of SUNY.

Also discussed:

• Evolving expectations of students in the UAE, particularly their desire for entrepreneurial opportunities and engagement with sustainability initiatives.

• Adapting to, and advocating for, AI technologies while maintaining the core values of education, ethics, and learning.

• The value of a well-rounded education, and AUS' commitment to a liberal arts core, preparing students to tackle complex, interdisciplinary challenges in their future careers.