When the moment anxious students had dreamed of for years arrived, the riveting music of Verdi's Aida suddenly filled the air. Hands were waved and kisses were blown as the music perfectly captured the beauty of the moment. Their evening was to be a very special one, for not only were they celebrated for their academic achievements, but a very special fellow alumni was honoured that evening as well. Mrs Suzanne Mubarak returned to her alma mater to be awarded the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters and to deliver the commencement address. AUC President John Gerhart read the citation listing Mrs Mubarak's contributions to social development for which she was being honoured.
Parents are undoubtedly both proud and relieved to see their children complete their studies.
Mrs Mubarak spoke of how her education at AUC prepared her to take on the social work in which she has been involved. For me, personally, tonight is also very special, for I greatly appreciate my own university's recognition of my achievements. As I reflect back, I must acknowledge that it was the liberal arts education I received at AUC that equipped me for the kind of work I have been undertaking throughout the last 20 years. It was also during my undergraduate studies that I was challenged and encouraged to start my social service work in a small primary school in Boulaq. Addressing the graduates, Mrs Mubarak urged the protection of basic values, human rights and cultural diversity in a fast-changing world of globalisation and leaping technological advancements.