An Artist Researcher, who explores the interfaces between culture, memory, phenomenology, social mind and Post-Fordist economic structures, has conducted a series of seminars for Graduate and Undergraduate Arts Students, Department of Fine Arts, American University in Cairo on his artworks on two levels: as art objects displayed and exhibited as well as teaching devices.  He is Dr. Warren Neidich, who lectured at many American universities such as Harvard University, Duke University and University of California. Dr. Neidich visited the American University in Cairo under the auspices of the Commission’s Fulbright Specialist Program, which provides short-term opportunities for Egyptian institutions and American scholars to increase collaboration between the United States and Egypt.  The Commission is grateful for Dr. Warren Neidich’s collaboration.

On April 18^th American Fulbrighters and some Egyptian Alumni gathered at the Villa for a seminar on "Egypt in Transition”. The seminar featured Dr. Ezzedine Choukri Fishere, Associate Professor, Political Science Department, American University in Cairo. His talk was very well received.  “Excellent insight,” said one Fulbrighter. “Thank you so much Dr. Ezzedine….. It was a great talk,” said a second. “Excellent selection of speaker; I would encourage Fulbright to organize more such lectures as well as seminars and debates among different political groups” requested a third.  The seminar was arranged by the Commission’s Cultural and Educational Program, which sponsors site visits, seminars, and other activities to help its American grantees understand Egypt and its culture.  The Commission is grateful to Dr. Ezzedine.

Ms. Patricia Kubala, an American Institute of International Education Graduate Fellow, is conducting research on “Islamic Drama in Egypt from the Nahda to the Satellite Era: Aesthetics, Ethics, and Religious Reform”. Ms. Kubala is a doctoral student at University of California, Berkeley. She graduated from Columbia University in 2000 with a B.A. degree in Middle Eastern Studies. In 2006 she took her M.A. degree in Religious Studies from University of California, Santa Barbara. The Commission extends a warm welcome to Patricia!

On March 14, the Commission’s Board of Directors and staff hosted a reception in honor of  Egyptian alumni and American Fulbrighters.  The event provided the perfect opportunity to introduce new alumni to Egypt’s Fulbright community.  Enhancing communication among Fulbrighters – Americans and Egyptians, alumni and grantees – is  among the Commission’s constant objectives.  In  her welcoming remarks, the Executive Director, Ms. Elizabeth Khalifa, introduced new alumni to the Commission’s alumni circles in arts, education, humanities, and sciences in addition to the recently formed HHH Alumni Forum for professionals.   In addition, Ms. Khalifa announced three initiatives of the Commission’s Alumni Office and they are: a. Twinning Humanities circle with Fulbright  Alumni in Morocco

b.   New exchange opportunities  with  Northern  Michigan University for alumni in cultural studies and c. Fulbright Ambassador Recognition Award. The Commission is grateful to the many Fulbrighters who attended the reception and for its active alumni circles for enhancing the exchange of knowledge aspect of the program in Egypt.

An American Fulbrighter has begun research on “Agricultural Science, Colonial Modernity, and Rural Egypt, 1882-1922” while affiliated with Al Azhar University.  He is Mr. Evan Murphy, a doctoral student at University of Illinois.  Mr. Murphy graduated from Grand Valley State University in 2004 with a degree in History and Political Science. In 2009 he took his M.A. degree from University of Arizona. While in Cairo he will pursue his research while affiliated with Al Azhar University.  The Commission extends a warm welcome to Evan!

On February 25, the Commission’s Humanities Circle in collaboration with the Faculty of Alsun, Ain Shams University conducted a seminar, “Revolutionary Nation and Bewildered Media.” More than 100 faculty and students participated in the seminar. The first session featured presentations by Dr. Hassan Salama, Chief editor at Nile News Channel and Ms. Reem Nour, Reporter, Nile English News TV to compare and provide their different roles and the job challenges in relaying reality to their audiences. The second session featured presentations by Mr. Yehia Mumtaz, Director, Mehwar Satellite Channel who explained the risks and challenges facing public and private media before and during the revolution, and by the administrative team of the Facebook page "Asahby" specialized in providing a comic coverage of the revolution events. Alumni Dr. Mounira Soliman (New York University 2004-2005) and  Dr. Sonia Farid (University of California - Santa Cruz 2006-2007) moderated the two sessions. The seminar ended with a play performed by the Faculty of Alsun students entitled: “A Journey Amid the Event.”  The Commission thanks our alumni at the Faculty of Alsun, Dr. Laila Galal Rizk (AY1995-1996 – Columbia University), Vice Dean for Community Service and Environment Development, and Dr. Mayy el Hayyawi (Stanford University  2010-2011), current Leader of  the Humanities Circle, for their leadership in planning and organizing the event. Through activities of the Commission’s Alumni Office, the Commission enhances its educational and cultural role in the academic community.

Twenty-three American Fulbright Scholars from ten different MENA-hosted countries assembled in Cairo, Egypt from March 2-4, 2013 for the first MENA-region Fulbright Scholars Enrichment Seminar. In cooperation with the State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, the seminar succeeded in bringing together American scholars currently conducting research or teaching in Morocco, Algeria, Israel, West Bank, Jordan, Qatar, Egypt, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The seminar was hosted by the Bi-national Fulbright Commission in Egypt, facilitated by Fulbright Executive Director, Elizabeth B. Khalifa, and attended by Donna Ives, State Department’s Chief for North Africa and Middle East Academic Programs, and Patricia Kabra, Counselor for Press and Cultural Affairs – US Embassy, Cairo. It provided a rich opportunity for the scholars to share their research and teaching experiences through formal presentations and dialogue with a particular focus on major challenges, solutions and success factors. Scholars exchanged ideas and resources, networked, engaged in lively group discussions and toured Egyptian cultural sites in Cairo. Special guest presentations were given by Dr. Lisa Anderson, AUC President, and Dr. Ziad Bahaa El Din, AUC Faculty member and Attorney at Law.

Mr. Jonathan Guyer, an American Fulbright student, is conducting research on “Cartoons of the Revolution:  Documenting Egypt's Political Transition” while affiliated with Cairo University.  Mr. Guyer took his B.A. degree from Brown University in 2008, majoring in Development Studies. He studied Arabic at the American School of Tangier, Morocco, in 2007 and at the Middle East Institute in Washington D.C. in 2011. The Commission extends a warm welcome to Jonathan!

Dr. Randy Gaugler, Professor and Director of the Center for Vector Biology at Rutgers University, has begun conducting research at Cairo University.  Dr. Gaugler graduated from North Dakota State University in 1972 with a B.Sc. in Agriculture and Microbiology, in 1974 he took an M.Sc. degree from North Carolina State University and in 1978 a Ph.D. degree from University of Wisconsin. While in Egypt he will conduct research on “Behavioral Ecology of Mosquito-Parasitic Mermithid Nematodes” in affiliation with Cairo University. Dr. Gaugler is in Egypt with his wife Cheryl Ray Gaugler. The Commission extends a warm welcome to them both.

On February 8, American Fulbrighters toured Saqqara, Dahshour and Memphis.  The tour was sponsored by the Commission’s Culture and Education Program and was led by Dr. Chahinda Karim, a professor of Islamic art and architecture at the American University in Cairo. Highlights of the tour included visits to the Tomb of Mereruka, the Pyramid of Teti, the layout of the Pyramid of Zoser, the Red Pyramid in Dahshour and the city of Memphis. One Fulbrighter noted:  “Great trip! Very interesting and knowledgeable guide! Everyone living in Cairo should see these sites.”Another commented: “I appreciate the opportunity to learn about Egyptian history and see some of the less common ancient sites.” A third one added: “Very informative. I would not have learned as much on my own”. Through its Culture and Education Program, the Commission helps its American grantees to get to know more about Egypt and its culture.

Shawn Renee Lent, AY2012-2013 U.S. Fulbright Scholar to Egypt, completed a four-month lecturing grant from September 1, 2012 to January 1, 2013. During her grant, she was affiliated with the Egyptian Academy of Arts’ High Institute of Ballet and volunteered at the 57357 Children’s Cancer Hospital Egypt as a dance teaching artist.  At the Academy of Arts, High Institute of Ballet, Shawn lectured and taught modern jazz for Years 7-9 and offered workshops on the role of dance in education and healthcare.  In addition, she volunteered at 57357 Children’s Cancer Hospital Egypt as a dance teaching artist, providing dancing sessions for the young out-patients awaiting their treatment, the teen peer support group, and the teen sleep away camp at the Health and Hope Oasis in Wadi Natrun. This past December, Shawn led  a one-day event at the 57357 Children’s Cancer Hospital that was her dream when she first came to Egypt, but Shawn’s dream came true when she succeeded in bringing together the faculty and students of the Academy of the Arts’ High Institute of Ballet and the world of 57357.  In her words, in portrayal of her feelings about the experience, she said “Beyond just the joy of the patients, what I loved about being here in Cairo is that these dancers and parents get it, both at 57357 and at the High Institute of Ballet. Dance is so important for kids to get to know their bodies, to relate to other children of different religions and ethnicities, and to explore the freedom the Revolution gave them, no matter what fears or cancerous beast may be inside.”  Indeed the Fulbright program is a people to people program and it is experiences of scholars like that of Shawn that  makes that trait of the program more obvious and inspiring.

The Commission’s Executive Director Ms. Elizabeth Khalifa called on Prof. Hossam Kamel, the President of Cairo University, this past November.  During their meeting Ms. Khalifa and the President discussed the various ways in which the Commission and the University are cooperating with each other and possibilities for furthering their cooperation.  Following that meeting, the Commission’s Executive Director  joined by the Manager of Alumni Affairs, Ms. Safaa Abbadi, met with Fulbright alumnus Dr. Ezzaldin Abusteit, Vice president for  Education and Students Affairs.  Dr. Abusteit was invited to attend the Hubert H. Humphrey Alumni Forum First Seminar, “The Egyptian Constitution:  Challenges and Hopes” that took place later in the day at the Faculty of Economics and Political Science of Cairo University.  Through visits like this, the Binational Fulbright Commission is able to reach wider and deeper into Egypt’s academic and professional communities.

Mrs. Leticia ElNaggar, an American Fulbright student, is conducting research on “Nay Performance in Classical and Folkloric Egyptian Musical Contexts” while affiliated with the Academy of Arts.  She took her B.A. degree from Columbia University in 2011, majoring in Middle Eastern Studies. Mrs. ElNaggar is in Egypt with her husband Amir Zuhair ElSaffar. The Commission extends a warm welcome to them both.

In November, the Commission’s HHH Alumni Forum conducted a seminar on “The Egyptian Constitution:  Challenges and Hopes.” Nearly one hundred academics, graduate students, undergraduate students and HHH alumni participated in the three session seminar. The seminar was co-hosted and co-sponsored by the Civilizations Dialogue Center of the Faculty of Economics and Political Science at Cairo University. The first session entitled: “The Constitution:  Social Rights and Future Obligations” gave historical background by Dr. Ibrahim H. Elghazawi  (Minnesota Law School 2009-2010)  and the constitution’s role in forming  and impacting societies’ future by Mr. El Sayed Yassin, Political Thinker and Consultant at Al Ahram Center for Political and Strategic Studies and Dr. Mostafa Kamel el Sayed, Professor of Political Science, Faculty of Economics and Political Science, Cairo University. The second session entitled: “Citizenship and Public Freedom” addressed the importance of safeguarding the human rights of all citizens regardless of their religion, gender or age. Speakers included: Dr. Nevine Mosad, Professor of Political Science, Faculty of Economics and Political Science, Cairo University, Dr. Bahey el Din Hassan, Director of the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies and Dr. Amal Abdel Hadi, Activist and Feminist. The third session entitled: “Economic and Social Rights” addressed the importance of sustainable development as an implementable concept targeting the economic and social development  of the society. Speakers included: Ms. Olfa Tantawi (University of Maryland 2005-2006), Advocate Consultant for one of the major development projects in Upper Egypt, United Nations, Eng. Wael Sabry, Architect and a member in many development societies, and Judge Yussef Auf  (American University 2011-2012),  Giza Court.  Several  distinguished alumni contributed to the organization of the seminar with Ms. Safaa Abbadi, Manager of Alumni Affairs, including Dr. Mohamed Soffar ( Georgetown University 2006-2007), Director, Civilizations Dialogue Center of Cairo University, Ms. Rania Hassanein (Emory University  2009-2010), Head of Blood Issuing Department, National Blood Transfusion Service, and Dr. Lobna Reda, Leader of the HHH Alumni Forum. Through these types of activities, the Commission shares the expertise of its alumni with academia and the society.

On November 27,   the Commission’s circle of humanities alumni conducted a seminar on “To  Revolt or to Adapt:  From Teaching Revolutionary Literature to Initiating Literary Adaptation.”  Faculty members, undergraduate students and graduate students participated in the event, which was hosted at Minia University.  The seminar included  two sessions addressing the Circle’s two initiatives.   The first session entitled:  “Teaching  Revolutionary Literature at Egyptian Universities III:  Feedback and Testimonials”  where Dr. Osama Madani (Study of U.S. Institute 2001) the Circle’s leader  provided an overview  about the Humanities Circle and the progress of its initiative that began in  2011 following the January 25 revolution.  This was followed by Dr. Heba Sharobeem of the Alexandria University, Faculty of Education  presentation  on  “Revolution and Literature:  Again and Again” that traced the initiative progress  at Alexandria University.   The  second session entitled:  “Literary Adaptation:  From Theory to Practice”  announced  the Circle’s second initiative.  Session included presentations by  Dr. Laila Galal Rizk (AY1995-1996 – Columbia University), Vice Dean for Community Service and Environment Development, Faculty of Alsun, Ain Shams University on  “Literary Adaptation:  Concepts and Issues”; Dr. Magda Mansour Hasabelnaby, Associate Professor of English Literature, Women’s College, Ain Shams University on “Sulaiman El Bassam’s Al Hamlet Summit:  An Arabic Adaptation of Hamlet”; and Dr. Hend Khalil, English Language and Civilization Lecturer, Faculty of Applied Languages, French University in Egypt  .  The seminar was the third in a series of Humanities Circle events designed to enlighten the classroom discussion of Egypt’s revolution and the first in introducing the new initiative.  The event is the third in a series of educational and cultural events over a 3-day visit to Minia University in late November.

Ms. Hannah Chartoff, a graduate of Duke University, is pursuing Arabic language studies at Arab Academy.  Ms. Chartoff studied Political Science at University College in London in 2010 and took her B.A. from Duke in Political Science and Arabic in 2012.  She is in Egypt under the auspices of the Commission’s U.S. Fulbright Student Program. The Commission extends a warm welcome to Hannah!

Ms. Sarah Sharp is pursuing Arabic language studies at Al Diwan Center, and will soon begin a research project while affiliated with Helwan University. Ms. Sharp graduated from Hampshire College in 2000 with a B.A. in Fine Arts. In 2006, she earned an M.F.A. degree from Savannah College of Art and Design in Fine Arts and Painting.  She is in Egypt under the auspices of the Commission’s U.S. Fulbright Student Program. While in Cairo she will conduct research on “Production and Exhibition: Contemporary Art in Egypt from 1990 to the Present”. The Commission extends a warm welcome to Sarah!

On November 23-25 fourteen American Fulbrighters visited Minia Governorate and Minia University.  The tour was sponsored by the Commission’s Culture and Education Program, and was assisted by Fulbright alumna Dr. Ghada Abdel Hafiz (Ohio University AY 1991-1992), Chair of English Department, Faculty of Arts, Minia University. American Fulbrighters interacted with their Egyptian peers during site visits guided by Dr. Engy El Kilany, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Tourism, Minia University. Visits to the Governorate’s historical sites were followed by an Egyptian-American dialogue between the visiting Fulbrighters and more than forty students and teachers from the University.  “The visit to Minia University was the most dynamic day.  Interacting with the students was a sincere pleasure,” said one Fulbrighter.  “I really enjoyed the ferry ride to Bani Hassan and the visit to the tombs. I loved that we were able to spend so much time talking with our Egyptian peers...” Another Fulbrighter added: “I am glad I got to meet so many hard-working and bright Egyptians who have never had extended discussions with Americans before”.  The visit to Minia University was part of a three day collaboration with the University that also included presentations to students and faculty on Fulbright Program Opportunities on November 26 and a Fulbright Alumni seminar titled “To  Revolt or to Adapt: From Teaching Revolutionary Literature to Initiating Literary Adaptation” held in collaboration with the English Department on November 27.

Ms. Shawn Lent, an Arts Integration Specialist at Columbia College, has begun lecturing at the Academy of Arts’ High Institute of Ballet.  Ms. Lent graduated from the Millikin University in 2000 with a B.F.A. in Theatre and Dance, and in 2006, she took an M.A. degree in Educational Administration from Columbia College. Ms. Lent has also volunteered to teach dance at the Children's Cancer Hospital 57357. The Commission extends a warm welcome to Shawn!

Mr. Noah Tetenbaum, a graduate of Grinnell College, is pursuing Arabic language studies at Al Diwan Center.  Mr. Tetenbaum studied Arabic at the American University in Cairo in 2010, and took his B.A. in Philosophy in 2012.  He is in Egypt under the auspices of the Commission’s U.S. Fulbright Student Program. The Commission extends a warm welcome to Noah!

A graduate of George Washington University is conducting research while affiliated with Helwan University. She is Ms. Dominique DeAngelo. Ms. DeAngelo took her B.A. from George Washington in 2011, majoring in Middle East Studies and History. She studied Arabic at the University of Alexandria in 2009 and at the University of Aleppo in Syria in 2010. Ms. DeAngelo is in Egypt under the auspices of the Commission’s U.S. Fulbright Student Program. She is conducting research on “Women in the Martial Arts”. The Commission extends a warm welcome to her!

Dr. Laura Bier, an Assistant Professor in History at Georgia Institute of Technology, has begun conducting research at Ain Shams University.  Dr. Bier graduated from Tufts University in 1992 with a B.A. in Political Science and English. In 1995, she took an M.A. degree from University of Chicago and in 2006 a Ph.D. degree from New York University.  While in Egypt she will conduct research on “Cultures of Consumption: Commodification, Politics and Everyday Life in Modern Egypt, 1945-1991” in affiliation with Ain Shams University. Dr. Bier is in Egypt with her husband Mohamed Moukhtar Abdel Hak Aly and her daughter Zahra. The Commission extends a warm welcome to Laura and her family.

Ms. Navdeep Sokhey, an alumna of Gettysburg College, has assumed language studies at the Center for Arabic Studies Abroad (CASA) at the American University in Cairo. In 2011 Ms. Sokhey studied Arabic at the Middlebury Summer Intensive Arabic Institute, and earned her B.A. degree from Gettysburg College, majoring in Globalization Studies and Italian Studies. She is in Egypt under the auspices of the Commission’s U.S. Fulbright Student Program. The Commission extends a warm welcome to Navdeep!

Dr. Carol Riphenburg, a professor in Political Science at College of DuPage, has begun conducting research at Cairo University.  Dr. Riphenburg was educated at the University of Wisconsin (B.A. 1967) and in 1969 she took an M.A. degree from Georgetown University. In 1981 she got her Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. While in Egypt she will conduct research on “Women and Political Participation in Egypt; Opportunities and Encumbrances for Women following the January 25 Revolution” while affiliated with the Faculty of Economics and Political Science, at Cairo University. The Commission extends a warm welcome to Carol!

Mr. Spencer Case, an American Fulbright student, is conducting research on “Islam’s Forgotten Humanist: an Explication of Miskawayh’s Ethical System” while affiliated with the American University in Cairo.  Mr. Case graduated from Idaho State University in 2009 with a degree in Philosophy and Creative Writing.  In 2012, he took his M.A. degree in Philosophy from the University of Colorado. He served as a U.S. Army journalist and completed military journalism training at the Defense Information School (DINFOS) at Fort Meade, Md. in 2004. The Commission extends a warm welcome to Spencer!

Ms. Michelle Liguori, an American Fulbright student, is conducting research on “The Supreme Constitutional Court, Religion, and Egypt’s Constitutional Transformation” while affiliated with Cairo University.  Ms. Liguori graduated from Amherst College in 2006. In 2012 she took her J.D. degree in Law from Harvard Law School. The Commission extends a warm welcome to Michelle!

On October 19, 20 American Fulbrighters visited Alexandria as an overnight trip sponsored by the Commission’s Culture and Education Program. While in Alexandria the Fulbrighters enjoyed a walking tour of Alexandria, including visits to the Alexandria National Museum, Cavafy’s Museum, St. Mark’s Cathedral and Alexandria Opera House.  They also enjoyed a tour of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina organized by Chief Librarian, Ms. Lamia AbdelFattah.  The tour was followed by a luncheon with Fulbright alumni from Alexandria and with Ms. Jennifer Walsh, Deputy Consul General and Ms. Naima Green, Public Affairs Officer, U.S. Consulate General. The visit was concluded by a presentation on “Alexandria, a History of Cultural Interaction” by Dr. Mohamed Awad, Director- Alexandria & Mediterranean Research Center. One Fulbrighter commented: “I really enjoyed exploring Alexandria in its historical context and relevance to the rest of the country.” Another Fulbrighter said: “…. I especially enjoyed eating lunch with the Egyptian alumni. The trip was very well organized”.  A third one added: “I enjoyed most the lecture by Dr. Awad, and I also really enjoyed the guided tours of the museums”. Through the Commission’s Culture and Education Program, American grantees benefit from unique access to sites and to people and places throughout Egypt.

Ms. Lindsey Smith, an alumna of the University of Texas at Austin, has assumed language studies at the Center for Arabic Studies Abroad (CASA) at the American University in Cairo.  Ms. Smith studied French at Université de Paris IV in France in 2011, and took her B.A. degree from the University of Texas at Austin in 2012, majoring in Government and Arabic. She is in Egypt under the auspices of the Commission’s U.S. Fulbright Student Program. The Commission extends a warm welcome to Lindsey!

Mr. Nathaniel Kim, an alumnus of University of California - Los Angeles, has assumed language studies at the Center for Arabic Studies Abroad (CASA) at the American University in Cairo. Mr. Kim took his B.A. degree from UCLA in 2012, majoring in Arabic. He is in Egypt under the auspices of the Commission’s U.S. Fulbright Student Program. The Commission extends a warm welcome to Nathaniel!

An American Fulbrighter has begun research on “Egyptian Film, Media, and National Identity: 1952-1976” while affiliated with Cairo University.  He is Mr. Meir Walters, a doctoral student at Georgetown University. Mr. Walters has assumed language studies at the Center for Arabic Studies Abroad (CASA).  He studied Arabic at Defense Language Institute in Monterey in 2002-2003, and graduated from the St. John’s College in 2001 with a degree in Liberal Arts. In 2005 he took his M.A. degree from the University of Chicago. While in Cairo he will pursue his research while affiliated with the Faculty of Mass Communication at Cairo University.  The Commission extends a warm welcome to Meir!

Ms. Miriam Berger, an alumnus of Wesleyan University, has assumed language studies at the Center for Arabic Studies Abroad (CASA). Ms. Berger studied Modern Standard Arabic in 2010 at Qasid Arabic Institute and in 2012 at Middlebury Arabic Language School. Following the completion of her CLEA, she is conducting research on “Egyptian Print Media in the Digital Age: Evolution and Stagnation” while affiliated with the Faculty of Mass Communication at Cairo University. The Commission extends a warm welcome to Miriam!

On September 22 American Fulbright grantees and their family members enjoyed a walking tour of Coptic and Islamic Cairo.  The program was sponsored by the Commission’s Culture and Education Program, and conducted by Dr. Chahinda Karim, Professor of Islamic Art and Architecture, American University in Cairo.  It included visits to the Hanging Church, Abu Serga Church, the Ben Ezra Synagogue, Amr Ibn El-Aas, Sultan Hassan and El Refaie Mosques, and a walk through El Muizz Street.  One Fulbrighter commented:  “I found the tour informative and enjoyable...” Another Fulbrighter said: “I thought it gave us a great introduction to the city and to its religious history, current practices and culture.” A third one added: “Having Dr. Karim as our tour guide was a unique experience!” Through its Culture and Education Program, the Commission helps its American grantees understand Egypt and its culture.

An American Fulbrighter has begun research on “State Reform and Political Transition in 19th and 20th Century Egypt”.  She is Ms. Sofia Fenner, a doctoral student at University of Chicago. Ms. Fenner studied Arabic at the American University in Cairo in 2006-2007 and graduated from Yale University in 2007 with a degree in Political Science. In 2008, she pursued her masters at the University of Chicago. While in Egypt Ms. Fenner has assumed language studies at the Center for Arabic Studies Abroad (CASA) and she will be affiliated with Helwan University and the American University in Cairo. She is in Egypt under the auspices of the Commission’s U.S. Fulbright Student Program. The Commission extends a warm welcome to Sofia!

On  September 21, three of the Commission’s  alumni circles (Humanities Circle, Science Circle and Artists Circle) in cooperation with the Cultural Development Fund of  the Ministry of Culture, conducted  an evening on “Nubians:  Future Challenges and Hopes.”  More than 150 alumni and guests joined the Fulbright alumni initiative to address challenging topics and share their knowledge with the community to help resolve them. Alumni, academics and a public audience from all over Egypt enjoyed the evening at the Ministry’s well known Cultural venue, Amir Taz Palace (Mamluk Palace, built in 1352). The evening began with an artistic exhibition of two Nubian artists: Ms. Shayma’a Kamel and Ms. Mervat el Shazly inaugurated by Ms. Elizabeth Khalifa, Executive Director, Binational Fulbright Commission in Egypt and Mr. Gamal Mostafa, Director, Amir Taz Cultural Center.  The exhibition was facilitated and coordinated by alumnus Mr. Khaled Hafez (Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts - 2004-2005). The evening event then offered a seminar that featured two presentations.  The first presentation by alumnus Dr. Osama Abdel Meguid (Harvard University - 2005-2006), was entitled “Nubia Past and Present,” and addressed the historical and cultural background of the Nubians. The second presentation by Dr. Abdel Fattah Metawa’a, Professor National Research Center for Water Resources, was entitled “New High Dam on Nasr Lake and Sustainable Development,” and included the screening of a documentary film describing the project.  Two distinguished alumni moderated the seminar and the interactive discussions that followed: Humanities Circle leader, Dr. Osama Madani (Study of U.S. Institute - 2001) and Science Circle leader, Dr. Hany Hamroush (University of Virginia – 1990-1991).   Nubian lyrics and music by Mounib Nubian Folkloric Group concluded the evening.   The Commission’s Alumni Office managed by Safaa Abbadi is grateful for the Cultural Development Fund headed by Engineer Mohamed Abou Sa’ada for making available Amir Taz Cultural Center and the Fund resources.  As expressed by one of the Fulbright alumni, “It was well organized, informative, fun, creative... really an exceptional evening.”  Through these and other activities, the Commission’s Alumni Circles share their knowledge and expertise with the community.

On September 18, the Commission convened an orientation for its AY2012-2013 American Fulbright grantees. The Commission’s new Executive Director, Elizabeth Khalifa, welcomed the group and spoke about the history and significance of the Fulbright Program in Egypt. Deputy Chief of Mission, U.S. Embassy, Marc J. Sievers, gave an insightful speech on U.S. - Egypt relations and the role of Fulbrighters as cultural ambassadors. Other sessions featured representatives from the Embassy’s American Citizen Services Section “American Citizen Services:  How Can We Help?”, the Health Unit “How to Stay Healthy in Egypt”, the Security Unit “Safety and Security in Egypt” and The Cultural Affairs Office “Opportunities for Fulbrighters to Engage with the U.S. Embassy”. The highlight of the orientation was a “Fulbrighters in Egypt: Tips on Living and Studying/Conducting Research” session featuring 2011-2012 Alumni and "Egypt Across Time: Culture and Tradition" presentation delivered by Fulbright alumna Dr. Mounira Soliman (New York University AY 2004-2005). The orientation was concluded by a dinner hosted by the Fulbright Commission at Al-Azhar Park overlooking the Citadel. “The talk by Marc Sievers was very informative & interesting – also comforting in light of recent embassy protests,” said one Fulbrighter. “The talk by Mounira Soliman was excellent & a great introduction to the history and culture that I appreciated very much,” said another. “Natalia’s session was outstanding,” said a third.

The Commission is delighted to announce the appointment of Ms. Elizabeth B. Khalifa as its new Executive Director.  She succeeds Dr. Bruce A. Lohof, who has retired following seven years at the Commission.  Ms. Khalifa was educated at Hobart and William Smith Colleges (B.A. 1978) and in 1982 took an M.B.A. degree from New York University’s Stern School of Business.  Ms. Khalifa is an American citizen who has lived and worked in Egypt since 1983.  Her early career was in the banking sector with positions in New York and Cairo.  From 1994 to 2002 Ms. Khalifa was Country Director at AMIDEAST Cairo.  Since 2002 she has served the Institute of International Education as its Egypt Country and MENA Region Director.  She is a member of the American Chamber of Commerce in Egypt and an alumna of the American Field Service’s Beirut program.  Ms. Khalifa has been a member of the Fulbright Commission’s board of directors since 2006.  The Commission is pleased to have Ms. Khalifa as its new Executive Director and extends a warm welcome to her.

Mr. Yussef Auf, a Labor and Family Court judge in the Giza Primary Court has successfully concluded a Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship at American University’s Washington College of Law.  A Fellow in the field of law and human rights, Mr. Yussef also pursued a professional affiliation with POMED, a Washington-based think tank that focuses on Middle East politics.  He was also active in a range of other organizations, particularly with WCL’s Arab Law Students Association, which designated Mr. Yussef as a main speaker at its conference on “The impact of the Arab spring throughout the Middle East and Northern Africa.”  He also found time in his busy schedule to teach Arabic at American University.  So successful was Mr. Yussef’s Humphrey year that the Institute of International Education has invited him to be an alumni speaker at its Global Leadership Forum, to be convened in Washington in October 2012.  The Commission extends its warm congratulations to Mr. Yussef.

A Chief Police Officer with the Ministry of Interior has completed an AY2011-2012 Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship in law and human rights while resident at the University of Minnesota.  He is Mr. Talaat Einshouka.  During his year as a Humphrey Fellow Mr. Talaat also enjoyed a professional affiliation with the Minneapolis Police Department and the Minneapolis office of the FBI.  He explored the use of criminal information systems for the prevention and detection of crime, comparing American and Egyptian procedures and techniques.  He also wrote a paper for the FBI, detailing his vision for developing Egypt’s criminal information systems.  “Mr. Einshouka was a pleasure to have as a Humphrey Fellow,” his coordinator said.  “He was determined to deepen his understanding of new procedures and techniques for detecting and preventing crimes.”  While in Minnesota Mr. Talaat spoke to student groups and others about Egypt and its culture.  Our gratitude and regards to Mr. Talaat.

With a reception at the Fountain Area of the American University in Cairo’s Tahrir Square campus, followed by a concert in Ewart Hall, the Commission bid farewell to its Executive Director Dr. Bruce A. Lohof, following seven years’ service to mutual understanding between Egypt and the United States.  Gathered to honor Bruce were alumni, friends, members of the Board of Directors, and staffers.  Among the speakers were the President of AUC Dr. Lisa Anderson, Mr. Tom Thomson, Vice Chairman of the Board, and alumnus Dr. Amr Shaarawi (Virginia Tech AY1996-1997), Dean of Graduate Studies at AUC.  Members of the staff had recorded a brief documentary of comments about Bruce, in appreciation of their work together.

The evening’s guests enjoyed a concert by the Commission’s alumni, including soprano Dalia Farouk (Indiana University AY2001-2002), violinist Khaled Saleh (Indiana University AY2009-2010) harpist Mona Wassef (University of Arizona AY 2005-2006), and pianist, Mohamed Shams (Catholic University of America AY2006-2007).  Mona was joined by her 8-year-old son, violinist Omar el Serafi; Khaled by his wife, flutist Howaida Harak.  As the evening concluded, Bruce and his wife, Ms. Annemarie Lohof-Thurner, joined the staff on stage, where Bruce expressed his gratitude to his colleagues.  Speaking to friends in the audience, he said of the staff:  “I am grateful to them more than I can ever tell them, and grateful for the opportunity for telling you how grateful I am to them.”  Following the event Vice Chairman Tom Thomason told alumni manager Safaa Abbadi:  “you and your colleagues are ‘stars’! … thank you for the great organization and wonderful event … the video was amazing and so thoughtful … we are so fortunate and blessed to have such committed and talented Fulbright team.”  Bruce and Annemarie will divide their retirement years between Montana and Vienna.  They will always have a third home in Egypt, however.  As program managers Nevine Gad el Mawla and Ranya Rashed said:  “if the weather gets too cold in Montana, warm Cairo is always here.”  Meanwhile, a warm farewell to Bruce and Annemarie!

The Commission’s AY2012-2013 American Fulbrighters have participated in a pre-departure orientation hosted in Washington, DC, by the U.S. Department of State for Fulbright scholars and students en route to Egypt and other countries in the region. The orientation included sessions on cross-culture issues, grant administration, health and safety, and country-specific guidance. Egypt-specific guidance and information on grant details were presented by two members of the Commission’s U.S. team, Ms. Ranya Rashed and Ms. Amira Ibrahim. Two recent alumni shared their experiences with the new Fulbrighters.  They are Dr. Peter Westort (Alexandria University 2011-2012) and Mr. Munir Sayegh (Helwan Univeristy 2011-2012).  The Commission looks forward to welcoming the new Fulbrighters to Egypt.

The Commission has hosted a luncheon in honor of its eminent arts alumna, Ms. Gazbia Sirry (Huntington Hartford Foundation AY1965-1966; National Museum for Women in the Arts AY1992-1993).  Gazbia is a painter of international acclaim:  her work is included in the collections of museums in Alexandria and Cairo, and in the National Museum for Women in the Arts in Washington, the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris, and the Musee D’Art in Tunis.  Her 1960 painting, “The Kite,” was acquired by the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.  An enthusiastic supporter of the Commission’s cultural and educational activities, Gazbia contributed several pieces to an exhibition of alumni art that commemorated Fulbright’s 60^th year in Egypt.  The Commission is proud to count Gazbia among its most distinguished “Fulbrighters.”

The Commission has conducted a pre-departure orientation for nine Egyptians scheduled to participate in the AY2012-2013 Fulbright Egyptian Scholar Program.  The orientation included a presentation on the “American Education System and Culture” by Dr. Kenneth Suit, a film and humanities professor at Milligan College, and information on grant details by Ms. Dina Gaafar of the Commission’s Egyptian team.  Two recent alumni shared their experiences with the new Fulbrighters.  They are Dr. Mayy El-Hayawy (Stanford University 2010-2011) and Dr. Eman El-Meligy (Gettysburg College 2011-2012).  The Fulbright Egyptian Scholar Program provides opportunities for Egyptian post-doctoral faculty members, professionals, and independent scholars to conduct research at American institutions.  The Commission extends best wishes to its AY2012-2013 scholars.

An economist from the University of Kansas has conducted a series of seminars for faculty members and graduate students at the American University in Cairo.  He is Dr. Mohamed Ali El-Hodiri, a professor of economics at Kansas.  The workshop was co-sponsored by the AUC School of Business and the Commission’s Fulbright Specialist Program, and managed by the chair of AUC’s Department of Economics, Dr. Ahmed Kamaly.  The Fulbright Specialist Program provides short-term opportunities for Egyptian institutions and American scholars to increase collaboration between the United States and Egypt.  The Commission is grateful for Dr. El-Hodiri’s collaboration with AUC.

The Commission has conducted a pre-departure orientation for Egyptian Fulbrighters scheduled to participate in the AY2012-2013 Foreign Language Teaching Assistant (FLTA) program.  The orientation included a presentation on the “American Education System and Culture,” by Dr. Kenneth Suit, a film and humanities professor at Milligan College, and information on grant details by Ms. Dina Gaafar of the Commission’s Egyptian team.  Three recent alumni shared their experiences with the new FLTAs.  They are Ms. Amira Hegazy (Vassar College 2010-2011), Mr. Saad Kotb (Ursinus College 2010-2011) and Mr. Al-Mutazbellah Al-Abd (Birmingham Southern College 2011-2012).  The FLTA Program strengthens Arabic language instruction in American colleges and universities while providing Egyptian participants with opportunities to refine their skills, increase their English language proficiency, and expand their knowledge of American society.  The Commission extends best wishes to its AY2012-2013 FLTAs.

On June 27-28 the Commission conducted a pre-departure orientation for Egyptian students selected to participate in AY2012-2013 exchanges.  The orientation included a presentation on “American Education, Culture and Society,” by an American Fulbright student, Ms. Natalia Suit (Al Azhar University 2011-2012) and information on grant details by Ms. Nevine A. Gad El-Mawla and Ms. Deena Omar of the Commission’s Egyptian team.  Two recent Fulbright alumni, Ms. Dina Elzanfaly (Massachusetts Institute of Technology 2009-2010) and Mr. Mohamed Sayed Ahmed (New York University 2009-2010), shared their experiences with the new Fulbrighters.  They were joined by a current student, Mr. Ahmed Tawfic Saleh (University of Chicago 2011-2012).  Programs for Egyptian students provide opportunities for recent university graduates, master’s and doctoral degree candidates, and young professionals and artists to study in the United States.  The Commission extends best wishes to its AY2012-2013 students.

Three members of the Commission’s staff have earned Meritorious Service Increases.  They are Ms. Eman Gerges of the administrative team, Ms. Iman Hegazy of the Egyptian team, and Ms. Reem el Hassan of the front office.  Meritorious Services Increases are awarded annually to staff members whose performance substantially exceeds normal requirements, and who enhance their teams’ contributions to the work of the Commission.  Eman, Iman, and Reem were chosen by their coworkers.  “Because of colleagues like her,” one noted of Iman, “we are successful as an organization.  We do not fail our colleagues and we do not fail our clients.”  Eman was given “a big challenge with her new position,” said another colleague.  “She strived to prove herself and fulfill her duties, and I think that she’s done a great job.”  Of  Reem it was said:  “I simply like her way….  I know that I can depend on her to do a perfect job.”  High praise from colleagues is high praise indeed.  Congratulations to Eman, Iman, and Reem.

Ten undergraduate students from the University of Houston - Clear Lake have participated in a study tour of Egypt. The tour was conducted by two Fulbright alumni, Dr. Everett B. Penn (Cairo University 2004-2005), an associate professor of criminology, and Dr. Mike McMullen (American University in Cairo 2009-2010), a professor of sociology. The program included an evening discussion at the Villa, “Resolving Conflict:  Lessons Learned from Strained Relations between Police and Youth in the United States.” The discussion was augmented by a presentation from Hubert H. Humphrey alumnus Dr. Ibrahim Omar (University of Minnesota 2009-2010), a lecturer in international law at the Police Academy in Cairo. The evening concluded with a rooftop Egyptian dinner at the Villa, where American and Egyptian participants shared their views and expectations of Egypt’s current social, political and cultural challenges. Through events like these, the Commission and its alumni help each other to pursue mutual understanding through mutual educational exchange.

A participant in the Commission’s Fulbright Egypt Student Program in Islamic Studies has earned an M.A. degree with Honors from the Yale Divinity School.  She is Ms. Mariam Shehata.  A graduate of Al Azhar University, Ms. Mariam began her Fulbright studies at Yale in AY2010-2011, concentrating on post modernism and Islam.  Since AY2009-2010 the program in Islamic studies has provided opportunities for graduates of the faculties of Islamic studies at Al Azhar University to pursue graduate degrees in the United States.  Ms. Mariam and nearly a dozen other Egyptian Fulbrighters have participated in the program.  The Commission extends its warm congratulations to Mariam.

On May 10-12 U.S. the Commission hosted its annual year-end conference for U.S. Fulbrighters.  Convened in Ain Sukna, the retreat heard American Fulbright Scholars share the results of their lecturing and research experiences.  “… wonderful just to have a relaxing and enjoyable setting in order to talk with the other Fulbrighters before we part ways,” said one Fulbrighter.  “… a very meaningful and well-planned ending to a wonderful grant period.”  A highlight of the weekend was a visit to Saint Anthony’s Monastery conducted by the Commission’s good friend, Father Maximous Elantony.  “Father Maximous’ presentation was truly exceptional,” one Fulbright noted.  Others remarked:  “the monastery visit was amazing … thrilled to be part of it and grateful to Fulbright for arranging it.”  Our thanks to Father Maximous for helping to bring AY2011-2012 to a fruitful conclusion.

The Commission’s Cultural and Educational Program has collaborated with Cairo University’s Center for Civilization Studies and Dialogue of Cultures to convene an Egyptian American-Dialogue.  U.S. Fulbrighters joined graduate and undergraduate students from the university to discuss five topics:  the role of Egyptian youth in the January 25 revolution and their importance in shaping Egypt’s future, the 2012 Egyptian presidential elections, bridging Egyptian-American cultural divides, the development of political systems in the U.S. and Egypt, and social and cultural transformations in Egypt and the U.S.   A general dialogue followed, moderated by Fulbright alumna Dr. Riham Bahi, (Northeastern University AY2001-2002), an associate professor of political science at Cairo University.  “… great perspective on topics that I had not considered before” said one Fulbrighter.  “I hope that the dialogue will continue [because] is extremely valuable.”  The Commission’s Cultural and Educational Program sponsors site visits, seminars and other activities to help its American grantees understand Egypt and its culture.