Honorary Degrees
AUC Honorary Degree Recipients
Dina Katabi, Thuan and Nicole Pham Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, June 2024
Dina Katabi is an esteemed electrical engineering scholar whose research focuses on networks and congestion control, machine learning, signal processing and health diagnostics using radio frequency signals and artificial intelligence. She received a BA in electrical engineering from Damascus University and an MSc and PhD in computer science from MIT. Katabi joined MIT in 2003 as a professor of electrical engineering and computer science. Since then, she has been an influential academic, graduating generations of top students in the field. In addition to her teaching role, she is currently co-director of the MIT Center for Wireless Networks and Mobile Computing as well as principal investigator at MIT's Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence Laboratory. Throughout her career, Katabi received numerous awards and recognitions. She was elected as a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences as well as the National Academy of Engineering.
Eve Troutt Powell (CASA '84, '89, '05), Christopher H. Browne Distinguished Professor of History and Africana Studies, University of Pennsylvania, H.L.D, June 2022
Eve M. Troutt Powell teaches the history of the modern Middle East and the history of slavery in the Nile Valley and the Ottoman Empire. As a cultural historian, she emphasizes the exploration of literature and film in her courses. Troutt Powell received her BA, MA, and PhD from Harvard University. Prior to coming to Penn, she taught for ten years at The University of Georgia. She has received fellowships from the American Research Center in Egypt and the Social Science Research Council, and has been a fellow at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton and at the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study. In 2003 she was named a MacArthur Foundation Fellow. She is also a professor in the department of Africana Studies.
Dr. Mahmoud Mohieldin, Senior Vice President for the 2030 Development Agenda, United Nations Relations and Partnerships at the World Bank Group, H.L.D, June 2018
Dr. Mahmoud Mohieldin graduated from the University of Warwick with a PhD in economics. He received his master’s degree in economics and social policy analysis from the University of York after obtaining his Bachelor of Science in economics from Cairo University. In addition, Mohieldin furthered his education through participation in high-level certification programs at Georgetown University and at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business. The American University in Cairo bestowed Mohieldin degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, in recognition of your status as a leading public servant at both the national and international level focusing on economic reform, development, and inclusion.
H.E. Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair, CEO of Mashreq Groups, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation for Education, H.L.D, June 2017
His Excellency Abdul Aziz Al Ghurair is the CEO of Mashreq Group and a member of the board of directors of the Abdulla Al Ghurair Group of Companies, with operations spanning more than 20 countries and business roots stretching back half a century. As chairman of the Abdulla Al Ghurair Foundation for Education, His Excellency is actively establishing one of the leading institutional philanthropic initiatives focused on education. He is committed to advancing the quality of education in the Arab world and making it more accessible to all high-achieving young Emiratis and Arabs.
David Miliband, President and CEO, International Rescue Committee, H.L.D, June 2017
David Miliband is the president and CEO of the International Rescue Committee (IRC). He oversees the agency’s relief and development operations in more than 30 countries as well as its refugee resettlement and assistance programs throughout the United States. Additionally, he manages the IRC’s advocacy efforts in Washington, D.C. and other capital cities on behalf of the world’s most vulnerable people. Miliband enjoyed a distinguished political career in the United Kingdom for more than 15 years. From 2007 to 2010, he served as the youngest foreign secretary in three decades, driving advancements in human rights and representing the United Kingdom throughout the world. As secretary of state for the environment in 2005 and 2006, he pioneered the world’s first legally binding emissions reduction requirements.
Yosra, Actress, Artist and United Nations Goodwill Ambassador, D.A., June 2016
Yosra is a multi-talented Egyptian actress, singer, United Nations Goodwill Ambassador and international Arab cultural icon. Yosra has been recognized as one of the most influential people in the region, having been named by Arabian Business among The World’s 100 Most Powerful Arab Women and by The Middle East among the 50 Most Influential Arabs. In 2015, she was granted the Achievement in Cinema award at the Arab Women of the Year ceremony in London. She has also received more than 60 local, regional and international awards in recognition of her artistic leadership, most notably being honored at the Cannes Film Festival and the Venice Film Festival.
Azza Fahmy, Chairwoman and Creative Director, Azza Fahmy Jewellery, D.A., February 2015
Azza Fahmy is one of the most influential and innovative Egyptian designers of all time. She has been a dedicated and distinguished ambassador of Egyptian culture and arts through international collaborations, creating collections for the British Museum and participating in New York Fashion Week. Her work has also led to the creation of The Design Studio by Azza Fahmy for young and aspiring contemporary jewelers.
Mostafa El-Sayed, Chemical Physicist, Sc.D., June 2015
Professor Mostafa El-Sayed is the Julius Brown Chair and Regents Professor at the Georgia Institute of Technology Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Director of the Laser Dynamics Lab there. He is one of the most important contemporary chemical physicists whose research has been hugely important. His work has earned him numerous awards, including the US National Medal of Science.
Omar Khairat, Egyptian Composer, D.A., February 2015
Omar Khairat is one of the most successful and beloved Egyptian composers of all time. He received the award in recognition of his incredible contributions to both Western and Arab music through his ability to bridge the two musical traditions and create inspiring works.
Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor, H.L.D, June 2014
The generous donor of the Khalaf Ahmad Al Habtoor Football and Track Stadium at AUC New Cairo, Khalaf Al Habtoor is known not only for his business achievements, but also his extensive knowledge of international political affairs, philanthropic activities, efforts to promote peace and longtime support of education.
Yousriya Loza Sawiris, H.L.D (MA '82), February 2014
A philanthropist, businesswoman and former parliamentarian, Yousriya Sawiris received the award in recognition of her accomplishments as an environmental advocate, pioneering philanthropist and longtime supporter of the University
Dr. Humphrey Davies, H.L.D. 2012
A Cairo-based British translator, studied Arabic at Cambridge, where he took a first, and at the AUC Center for Arabic Studies Abroad. His familiarity with the colloquial language and cultures of this region would be a key contributor to his superb translations of its literary works. In recognition of his seminal role as a connoisseur of language, providing English-speaking readers access to the imaginative space of Arabic language literature.
Dr. Mohamed El Erian, H.L.D. 2011
Renowned economist, CEO and co-CIO of Pacific Investment Management Company (PIMCO), in recognition of his outstanding economic and financial expertise on both the national and international levels.
Dr. Georges Abi-Saab, H.L.D. 2010
Professor Emeritus, Graduate Institute of International Studies in Geneva, and former member and chairman of the Appellate Body of the World Trade Organization. In recognition of his outstanding academic and legal careers on the national and international levels.
His Excellency Boutros Boutros-Ghali H.L.D. 2009
The former secretary general of the United Nations and speaker of the National Council of Human Rights and the president of the Curatorium Administrative Council at the Hague Academy of International Law. In recognition of his outstanding academic, legal, and political careers on both national and international levels and for his outstanding public service.
His Excellency Ahmed Kamal Aboulmagd H.L.D. 2009
Professor of public law at Cairo University, a judge and a former president of the World Bank Administrative Tribunal. In recognition of his outstanding academic and legal careers, both in Egypt and abroad, and for his outstanding public service to Egypt and the world.
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qassimi III, H.L.D. 2009
The ruler of Sharjah and a member of the Supreme Council of the United Arab Emirates since 1972. In recognition of His Highness' enormous support of cultural and educational programs and universities in the region.
Dr. Rima Khalaf Hunaidi, H.L.D. 2009
Chief executive officer of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation. In recognition of her important regional initiatives in education, women's rights, civic engagement and economic growth.
Dr. James J. Zogby, H.L.D.2008
Founder and president of the Arab American Institute (AAI). In recognition of his outstanding political career and leadership of Arab American efforts to secure political empowerment in the United States.
Yousef Abdul Latif Jameel, H.L.D. 2008
A well-known Saudi Arabian business leader and a philanthropist. In recognition of his outstanding business career and his valuable contributions and support to research and development for the good of the humanity.
Professor André Raymond, H.L.D. 2008
Professor Emeritus at the University of Provence, France. In recognition of his research contributions to the study of the history of the Ottoman Empire, the history of Egyptians, and the history of the Arab and Islamic Worlds.
Prof. Muhsen Mahdi, H.L.D. 2007
James Richard Jewett Professor of Arabic at Harvard University. In recognition of his leading research in Arabic history, philology and philosophy and how the deep-seated influences of the Middle East's tumultuous past have shaped this troubled region's current state of affairs.
Dr. E. Roger Owen, H.L.D. 2007
A. J. Meyer Professor of Middle East History, Department of History, Harvard University. In recognition of his research contributions in the political and socio-economic history of the Middle East since 1880.
Suad Al-Husseini Juffali, H.L.D. 2007
Managing director of the Ahmed Juffali Benevolent Foundation, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In recognition of her outstanding services and contributions to the areas of social welfare, art, music and education that span several countries in the Middle East and the United States of America.
His Highness The Aga Khan, H.L.D. 2006
The 49th Imam of Shia Imami Ismaili Muslims. In recognition of the various dimensions of his work and as a spiritual leader, his emphasis on compassion and tolerance and service as a patron of social, economic and cultural activities worldwide.
Dr. Mohamed El Baradei, L.L.D. 2005
Director general of the IAEA and a recipient of Nobel Peace Prize. In recognition of his outstanding role and efforts of IAEA in promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy and attempts to ride the world of nuclear weapons.
Paul Hannon, H.L.D. 2005
Philanthropist, distinguished business man and international lawyer, chairman of AUC's Board of Trustees. In recognition of the outstanding support AUC’s overall drive to academic excellence.
Dr. Rushdi Said, Sc.D., Fall 2004
Internationally known Egyptian geologist who is also a leading politician. In recognition of more than 50 years of contributions to the field of geology and his tireless participation in the political life of Egypt.
Dr. Zahi Hawass, H.L.D., Fall 2004
Secretary general of the Supreme Council of Antiquities, director of excavations at Giza and Bahriya Oasis, and a world-renowned Egyptian archaeologist. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the field of Egyptology.
Dr. Farouk El Baz, Sc.D., Spring 2004
Research professor and director of the center for remote sensing at Boston University, a world-famous geologist, a renowned space scientist and a prominent Arab-American. For his contributions to science and to better understanding between America and the Arab world.
Dr. Thomas Bartlett, H.L.D., Fall 2003
A distinguished leader in higher education, a former president of AUC and a long time member of its Board of Trustees. In recognition of his outstanding service to AUC and to higher education.
Dr. Hanan Ashrawi, H.L.D., Spring 2003
Prominent Palestinian leader, literary and political writer, university professor and administrator, and founder and secretary general of the Palestinian Initiative for the Promotion of Global Dialogue and Democracy (MIFTAH). In recognition of her endless struggle for Palestinian independence.
Dr. John Waterbury, H.L.D., Fall 2002
President of the American University of Beirut (AUB) and a leading authority on the politics and international affairs of the Middle East, especially Egypt. In recognition of his scholarly work and leadership of AUC's sister institution, AUB.
Sir John Meurig Thomas, Sc.D., Fall 2002
Renowned professor of chemistry at the Davy Faraday Research Laboratory of the Royal Institution of Great Britain and a Master of Peterhouse, University of Cambridge, 1993-2002. In recognition of his research in solid-state materials and surface chemistry, and efforts to popularize science among young people and lay audiences.
Youssef Chahine, L.H.D., Spring 2002
The best known and most highly regarded filmmaker in Egypt and the Arab world. In recognition of his outstanding cinematic career that has spanned over 50 years, and his unique ability to blend philosophical, political and dramatic storylines.
Dr. John D. Gerhart, L.H.D., Spring 2002
The ninth AUC president and president emeritus. In recognition of his brilliant leadership and his tireless efforts to make AUC an international liberal arts university that serves not only students, but also the community in which it resides.
H.E. Dr. Ahmed Esmat Abdel Meguid, L.L.D., Fall 2001
One of the most distinguished diplomats of the Arab World and former secretary general of the League of Arab States. In recognition of his long and outstanding career and for his friendship and unfailing support of AUC.
HRH Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Alsaud, L.L.D., Fall 2001
The leading entrepreneur in the Arab World. In recognition of his keen interest in development and his advocacy of the value of a private, secular, liberal arts education.
Dr. Faizah al-Kharafi, L.H.D., Spring 2001
Educator, dedicated scientist and President of Kuwait University. In recognition of her outstanding achievements and being the first and to date the only woman to head a university in the Arab world.
Dr. Hanna Nasir, L.H.D., Spring 2001
President of Birzeit University, vice president of the administrative board of the International Association of Universities. In recognition of his outstanding actively helping and defending human rights of the Palestinian.
Dr. Afaf L. al-Sayyid Marsot, L.H.D., Spring 2001
A prolific writer on the recent history of Egypt and subject of women’s history, elected as the first woman president of Middle East Studies Association. In recognition of her being an outstanding teacher, school and alumna of AUC.
Dr. William Kelly Simpson, L.H.D., Fall 2000
President of the International Association of Egyptologists, member of the board of the ARC and AUC and endowment of a chair in Egyptology at AUC. In recognition of his outstanding lifelong friendship with AUC and Egypt.
Ibrahim Helmy, L.H.D., Spring 2000
Outstanding medical zoologist, a dedicated environmentalist, a friend of AUC, the doyen of field naturalists in Egypt and the mentor of its new generation of conservationists.
Ismail Serageldin, L.H.D., Spring, 2000
Vice president of the World Bank for special programs, a prominent figure both in Egypt and internationally, a friend of AUC and a true poly-math who embodies the best of both Egypt and the US.
Her Excellency Suzanne Mubarak, L.H.D., Fall 1999
Egypt's first lady, a dedicated humanitarian and a distinguished alumna of AUC whose entire career has exemplified the application of knowledge to improving the social welfare of the children and women of Egypt.
Ibrahim Shihata, L.L.D., Fall 1999
Secretary general of the International Center for Settlement of Investment Disputes, former senior vice president and general counsel of the World Bank, a distinguished Egyptian, a prominent figure in the Arab World, and a well-known legal and financial expert world-wide.
Hon. Mark Hatfield, L.H.D., Spring 1999
Outstanding politician, a World War II hero, governor and senator from Oregon, a strong supporter of human rights and nuclear disarmament, a benefactor of AUC, and a friend of the Middle East.
Edward Said, L.H.D., Spring 1999
World famous scholar, an engaged human rights advocate, the most prominent Arab-American intellectual in the United States and one of the most influential literary critics of the 20th Century.
Laila El Hamamsy, L.H.D., Fall 1998
A leader in social research and a distinguished alumna of AUC. In recognition of her contribution to Arab anthropology and for developing AUC's Social Research Center.
Faten Hamama, L.H.D., Fall 1998
Performing artist and intellectual. In recognition of her acting career, which has earned her a place of honor in the hearts of millions in Egypt and the Arab world.
Dr. Richard F. Pedersen, L.L.D., Fall 1996
Diplomat, banker, educator and former president of AUC. In recognition of his distinguished service and commitment to the growth and development of AUC.
Naguib Mahfouz, L.H.D., Spring 1995
Nobel laureate for literature in 1988 and the most internationally-renowned Egyptian author. In recognition of his distinguished career and for his contributions to Arabic literature.
Dr. Sarwat Okasha, L.H.D., Spring 1995
Diplomat and politician. For his leading work in preserving Egyptian and world heritage, as well as contributions to the cultural life of Egypt.
Dr. Hermann Frederick Eilts, L.L.D., Fall 1994
Professor of international relations, diplomat and for fifteen years a trustee of AUC. In recognition of his distinguished career.
Aziza Hussein, L.H.D., Spring 1994
Distinguished alumna of AUC and a leading figure in social work. For her tireless efforts with non-governmental organizations in family planning, child care and the status of women.
Prof. Ahmed Zewail Sc.D., Spring 1993
Distinguished academic and a leading scientist. For his pioneering work in the areas of laser spectroscopy, photochemistry and photobiology.
Charles J. Hedlund L.L.D., Fall 1992
Prominent engineer, leading industrialist, chairman of The Board of Trustees. For his capable leadership and his commitment to the growth and development of AUC.
H.E. Samir El Shehabi L.L.D., Spring 1992
Diplomat, president of UN General Assembly. For his distinguished service to the Middle East and the United Nations.
Dr. Ahmed Bahaa Eldin L.H.D., Fall 1991
Journalist and political writer. For his lifelong commitment to freedom of expression, the rule of law and democracy.
H.E. Hisham M. Nazer L.L.D., Fall 1991
Saudi minister of petroleum and mineral resources. For his service to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and global ecology.
Dr. Ibrahim B. Madkour L.H.D., Spring 1990
A distinguished writer, linguist and social reformer who has made great contributions to the literature. President of the Arabic Language Academy.
Eugene R. Black L.L.D., Spring 1990
Banker, appointed special financial consultant to the secretary general of the United Nations; Permanent advisor to the United States Foreign AID programs, and advisor to the president of the United States on international economics and social development.
David C. Scott L.H.D., Fall 1990
President of the Scott Foundation; former chairman, Allis - Chalmers. Students at AUC and 25 other universities around the world have benefited from his generosity.
Dr. Magdi Yacoub Sc.D., Spring 1989
Egyptian-British heart surgeon; professor of cardiothoracic surgery, University of London. For his pioneering work performing heart and lung transplants.
Dr. Ibrahim Badran Sc.D., Spring 1989
Surgeon and educator; formerly minister of health and rector of Cairo University. For his service to Egypt, eminence in medicine and consistent interest in AUC.
Dr. John S. Badeau L.H.D, Spring 1989
Second president of AUC (1945-1953) and US ambassador to Egypt (1961-1964). In recognition of one of AUC's most distinguished leaders who served with dedication, wisdom and a sense of history.
Sheikh Abdul Latif Jameel L.L.D., Fall 1989
Self-made Saudi businessman and benefactor of AUC. For outstanding achievements in the Middle East and demonstrated commitment to education.
Peggy Weyerhaeuser Harmon L.H.D., Fall 1989
AUC trustee (1968-71, 1981-84) and honorary trustee. For her constructive contribution to AUC during many years of service as an active trustee.
Richard M. Morrow L.L.D., Spring 1988
Chairman of AMOCO; AUC trustee from 1981-1985. For support of programs in education, health and culture in Egypt and the Middle East.
Andree Saab Chedid '42 L.H.D., Spring 1988
Renowned Egyptian-French novelist, playwright and poetess. For her cross-cultural contributions to the world of letters sparked by her early years at AUC.
Dr. David F. Rockefeller L.L.D., Spring 1987
Financier and philanthropist; chairman of the board, Chase Manhattan Bank. For devoted service to higher education and the Middle East.
Prof. Sahir El Kalamawy L.H.D., Spring 1987
Scholar, literary critic and former member of parliament; the first Egyptian woman to receive a graduate degree. For her active role in the woman's movement.
Dr. Charles Philip Issawi L.L.D., Spring 1987
Egyptian-American economist and Middle East scholar; professor at The American University of Beirut, Columbia and Princeton. For his leading role as economic historian of the Middle East.
Mostafa Amin L.H.D., Spring 1987
Founder and editor of Akhbar El Yom; AUC alumnus. For his dedication in promoting freedom of expression in the press as editor of the largest weekly newspaper in the Arab World.
Hon. James William Fulbright L.L.D., Spring 1986
US senator; principal architect of the Fulbright Act. For his outstanding contribution to international education and student exchanges.
Prof. Mohamed Abdel Fattah El Kassas L.L.D., Spring 1986
Professor of applied botany, Cairo University. Internationally renowned ecologist who helped establish Egypt's first national park.
Prof. Zaki Naguib Mahmoud L.H.D., Spring 1985
Philosopher, author and educator. For his intellectual leadership in bringing together the great traditions of East and West to bear on the challenges of a changing society.
John Jay McCloy, Sr. L.L.D., Spring 1985
Statesman, lawyer, financier. Formerly president, World Bank, and chairman, Ford Foundation. By building bridges between the West and Egypt, he exemplifies the central mission of AUC.
Hassan Fathi L.H.D., Spring 1984
Described by UNESCO as "the world's leading environmental architect." For innovative use of traditional village architecture for the poor.