November 15, 2024
On Wednesday, November 13th, at the Kyrgyz State Philharmonic Hall, the American University of Central Asia held its 2024 Initiation Ceremony, marking a significant milestone for incoming freshmen. This annual event welcomed new students into the AUCA community and celebrated extracurricular excellence and artistic contributions.
The official part kicked off with a Presidential speech. Timothy O'Connor went up on the stage, greeted all those gathered, and gave his parting words to the new students of AUCA.
"Dear students, parents, colleagues, and friends. Today is a special day for our university and, above all, for you, dear students who have become part of our academic family. You have embarked on a path that will shape your knowledge, beliefs, and visions of the future." - Timothy O'Connor, AUCA President.
A highlight of the ceremony was the announcement of a new scholarship in honor of Nikolay Shulgin, AUCA's esteemed Artistic Director. Funded by AUCA and Mirrors Theater graduates, this scholarship aims to support outstanding students involved with Mirrors Theater. This year, the fundraising efforts increased from $3,000 to $4,000, allowing four exceptional students to receive this prestigious award. The ceremony featured Students' Life Officer Shakhruddin Iminov, who invited new and previous senators to participate in a solemn transfer of responsibility. The newly elected Student Senate members took their oaths, pledging their commitment to serve the AUCA community. The elected senators include Artur Kim, Barfiya Bozmamadova, Erkhan Shamyrbekov, Feruza Mamasydykova, Aidana Umetalieva, Amaliia Abubakirova, Eldar Aibekov, Nahida Qasimi, Yousuf Amani, Aftandil Abdisamiev, and Anushervon Nurmamadov.
As the official proceedings concluded, attendees were treated to an exceptional performance by Mirrors Theater. The troupe presented a captivating show inspired by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's beloved novella "The Little Prince," leaving a lasting impression on all present.
The AUCA Initiation Ceremony 2024 was not just an introduction for first-year students but a celebration of AUCA spirit and artistic expression that set an inspiring tone for the academic year ahead.