Video-recorded session with Goffredo Puccetti, Assistant Professor of Practice of Visual Arts, recorded on October 9, 2019, and interviewed by Brad Bauer, Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of the NYUAD Memory Project. Recordings and transcripts are preserved in the NYUAD University Archives.

Goffredo talks about his professional and personal journey which led him to NYU Abu Dhabi. He showcases the new NYUAD Bulletin which has been redesigned to reflect the growth of the university, as well as to incorporate the arabic script of 'NYU Abu Dhabi', a project he worked on with his students. He also mentions his role as a Faculty Fellow in Residence, which allowed himself, alongside his wife, to cultivate new traditions like tiramisu and taboo nights with the students. The switch from design practice to academia has been an interesting one, but Goffredo has realised the impact of teaching on students' lives, as well as settled into his design role on campus, thinking about things such as designing for accessibility on campus.

Video-recorded session with Dana Downey, recorded on Thursday October 10th 2019 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian in Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. Recordings and transcripts are preserved in the NYUAD University Archives.

Dana Downey reflects on her journey working for the Career Development Center (CDC) at NYUAD in 2014 as the university was preparing for its first graduating class, until now, working at the Saadiyat campus. She describes her initial attraction to the region and the university, and the benefits of its diverse population to her life and the lives of her family. Dana recounts the realities of the low staff-student ratio which meant that there was a lot of contact between staff and students which was both advantageous and disadvantageous. She also touches on the trials in creating some of the CDC's first student campaigns which relied heavily on student feedback and engagement.

Video-recorded session with Wayne Young, Director of Wellness at NYUAD, recorded on Wednesday, October 9th, 2019, and facilitated by Brad Bauer, Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. Recordings and transcripts are preserved in the NYUAD University Archives.

In this interview, Wayne Young reflects on the process and stories behind the designing of the Athletics and Wellness program at NYUAD. He talks about the challenges, such as the climate of Abu Dhabi and the lack of facilities in the earlier years of NYUAD, and about creative solutions like renting facilities at Al Muna Academy and the Armed Forces Officers Club. He shares stories about his experience of navigating the new cultural environment, traveling with students for sports events (e.g. Dead2Red relay race in Jordan), and designing and introducing the NYUAD mascot -- Faiza The Falcon.

Leah (Reynolds) Ritter, Emily (Eagan) Nivia, and Manuel Nivia, NYU Abu Dhabi Class of 2014 alumni, recorded on Thursday, October 10, 2019 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of the Memory Project. Recordings and transcripts are preserved in the NYUAD University Archives.

In this session, Leah, Emily and Manuel each reflect on the early days of being a student at NYU Abu Dhabi, for example, arriving and settling into Sama Tower, why they each chose NYUAD, traditions they remember such as the 24 hour film race and Rain Day. They reflect on living in Abu Dhabi, studying abroad within the country and internationally, and enjoyable aspects of student life in Sama Tower and the Downtown Campus. They mention the challenges of adjustment to a new cultural context, as well as the pressure of a rigorous academic program.

Video-recorded session with Abishek Mehra, Class of 2014 alumnus, recorded on October 10th 2019 and facilitated by Brad Bauer, Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of the NYUAD Memory Project. Recordings and transcripts are preserved in the NYUAD University Archives.

Abishek talks about his experience at NYU Abu Dhabi from Candidate Weekend through life in downtown Abu Dhabi, New York study away and life after graduation. For Abishek, NYU Abu Dhabi was a new academic experience with its liberal arts education, a system with which Mehra was not familiar. He reminisces on his challenges in freshman year transitioning from an Indian system to an American system, and how he was able to overcome those challenges through close access to teaching assistants, professors and deans. He also discusses his time in New York which was completely different to Abu Dhabi in terms of academic culture, city culture and level of independence. Abishek is adamant that NYU Abu Dhabi's greatest lesson is that you can do anything you set your mind to.

Video-recorded Memory Project session with Janos Kun, Class of 2014 alumnus recorded on Thursday, October 10, 2019, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. Recordings and transcripts are preserved in the NYUAD University Archives.

In this interview, Janos Kun reflects on his first memories of arriving in the UAE, his Marhaba week and his engagement with Abu Dhabi downtown, specifically about his favorite cafes and restaurants. He also discusses the role that NYUAD Athletics Department played in his personal growth by making sports a meaningful part of his self-care routine for many years. Janos Kun shares his impressions of the most memorable courses he took at NYU Abu Dhabi, such as Foundations of Science, Numerical Methods, Gardens of Eden, and Food in the Global City. He concludes by talking about his post-graduation experiences with his fellow schoolmates and the reunions they had all over the world.

Video-recorded NYU Abu Dhabi Memory Project session with Hazel Raja, Assistant Dean of Students and Director of the Career Development Center at NYU Abu Dhabi, and Jay Raja, Assistant Director of Fitness and Wellness Department, recorded on Thursday, October 10, 2019, and facilitated by Brad Bauer, Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of the NYU Abu Dhabi Memory Project. Recordings and transcripts are preserved in the NYUAD University Archives.

n this interview, Hazel and Jay Raja describe their first impressions of the NYUAD Downtown Campus, particularly the "trailer-like" outside and the impressive inside of the campus. They also recall a large number of construction sites around DTC. They share their initial amazement with life in Abu Dhabi (e.g. big apartment, pre-filled fridge), and the subsequent phase of homesickness and disappointment, which did not last long. Jay shares his story of starting a career in fitness at NYUAD, and Hazel describes her first days of working at the Career Center as daunting, but exciting at the same time. They describe the evolution of their respective departments over time. Hazel and Jay talk about their special places off-campus, such as Foodlands for shawarma, a park opposite to the Grand Mosque for sunset-watching, and Mushrif Park for walks with their daughter. In addition, they contrast their lives at DTC and the Saadiyat Campus and name their favorite campus community events including Cultural Nights, Pakistani Mock Wedding, and Community Cricket Match.

Video-recorded Memory Project session with Francesca Bizzarri, Artist in Residence and Goffredo Puccetti, Assistant Professor of Practice of Visual Arts, recorded on February 18, 2020 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. Recordings and transcripts are preserved in the NYUAD University Archives.

Francesca and Goffredo recall their transition from living in Europe to their new lives at NYU Abu Dhabi. For the pair, it was not a difficult decision as they were both mobile with their careers. Language was a point of contention for Francesca who had only acted in French and Italian, and then had to move to an environment that was English and Arabic-based. They describe the move from the Downtown Campus where they would frequently hear the call to prayer, and labs were based in apartments, to the newer and more spacious Saadiyat campus. Becoming Faculty Fellows in Residence was integral to their experience at NYU Abu Dhabi. The FFIR model underwent adaptation from the NYU structure due to differences in goals and logistics, and the importance of FFIRs in supporting community discussions in grey areas. As FFIRs they became heavily involved with students and the community, cultivating traditions such as Tiramisu Night, Meet Greet and Eat, and Twirl It Like Luigi. They were also able to foster connections between students themselves, as well as between students and external guests such as Charlie Carmada and Alfio Quarteroni who visited the NYUAD Institute.

Video-recorded Memory Project session with Matteo Marciano, Assistant Program Head and Assistant Professor of Practice of Music Technology at NYU Abu Dhabi, recorded on Tuesday, February 18, 2020 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to celebrating the memories, experiences, traditions, stories and community history of NYU Abu Dhabi in commemoration of the University's 10th Anniversary. Recordings and transcripts are preserved in the NYUAD University Archives.

In this interview, Matteo Marciano reflects on his teaching experience on the NYU Abu Dhabi campus. He talks in great detail about his engagement with the NYUAD community through various initiatives, for example, the Faculty-Fellow-In-Residence program, Battle of the Bands, NYUAD recording studio, and regional seminar trips.

This interview is a companion interview to the "Faculty Fellows In Residence" series and took place the same day as the group interview with Francesca Bizzarri, Goffredo Pucceti, and Adela Kovarova.

Video-recorded Memory Project session with Adela Kovarova, Center Coordinator at the Center for Interacting Urban Networks and Matteo Marciano Assistant Program Head and Assistant Professor of Practice of Music Technology, recorded on February 18, 2020, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. Recordings and transcripts are preserved in the NYUAD University Archives.

Adela and Matteo address their lives on campus in their professional realms as well as their roles as Faculty Fellows in Residence (FFIR). Adela describes the challenging transition moving from New York City to Abu Dhabi, avidly searching for employment and having to adapt to living on campus. As FFIRs, Matteo and Adela host community gatherings on campus in their dormitory apartment and off campus where attendees can interact with the local and other cultures, as well as promote and support the events of many other offices. They describe the process of learning to call Abu Dhabi home, which was made easier by the strong community presence living on campus and their cultivation of supportive relationships with their colleagues.

Video-recorded session with Francesca Bizzarri, Artist in Residence, Goffredo Puccetti, Assistant Professor of Practice of Visual Arts, Adela Kovarova, Center Coordinator at the Center for Interacting Urban Networks and Matteo Marciano Assistant Program Head and Assistant Professor of Practice of Music Technology. Interview recorded on February 18 2020, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of the Memory Project. Recordings and transcripts are preserved in the NYUAD University Archives.

These four colleagues and friends reflect on their journeys at NYU Abu Dhabi, mainly through the Faculty Fellow in Residence (FFIR) Program, which Goffredo And Francesca introduced to Matteo and Adela. They talk about how the role has been mutually beneficial -- helping them forge connections with the student body, and helping ground students in traditions like Tiramisu Night and other programming. The four talk about setting boundaries while living in student dorms, the budget and logistical constraints of programming, and the biggest challenge of improving communication between them and other faculty members about their role. Food is a central theme as they talk about the endless possibilities of tiramisu creation, as well as cooking and ordering-in events that facilitated bonding.

Video-recorded session with Aysan Celik, Faculty in the NYU Abu Dhabi Theater Program, and Artist in Residence Francesca Bizzarri, recorded on 26 February, 2020 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of either Memory Project. Recordings and transcripts are preserved in the NYUAD University Archives.

Aysan and Francesca speak about the origins of their relationship at NYUAD, and the development of Theater and the Performing Arts at the University and in wider Abu Dhabi. Aysan reflects on teaching the Core Course 'Laughter,' which includes workshops on clowning taught by Francesca, where the pair teach students from various academic and cultural backgrounds to expand their knowledge and comfort levels. They touch on the differences between the Downtown Campus and the Saadiyat Campus -- the former allowing greater exposure to Abu Dhabi and connections to its residents, which is hard to recreate in the 'Saadiyat bubble'. They both reflect on their experiences at the University including the importance of language and accents, as well as working as a start-up in order to launch the Theater Program.

Video-recorded session with Executive Artistic Director Bill Bragin and Director of Artistic Planning, Linsey Bostwick, of the NYU Abu Dhabi Arts Center. The session was recorded via Zoom on April 16, 2020, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of the NYUAD Library's Memory Project. Recordings and transcripts are preserved in the NYUAD University Archives.

In this interview, Bragin and Bostwick discuss the origins of the NYU Abu Dhabi Arts Center, their role in growing the program, and the particular tradition of artist community meals. Building their respective experiences running performing venues and working with talent, Bragin and Bostwick sought to help shape the UAE art scene to center on the experience of the artist, even as much of the industry focuses on the audience. Through the community meals, they have sought to break through the superficiality of the standard visiting artist experience and build an intimate, community centered moment that forges new relationships and links artists to NYU Abu Dhabi, and the UAE as a whole. Sharing several anecdotes of interactions from the past five years, they offer a glimpse into the moments that make the community meals special. Despite the many challenges of the event, Bragin and Bostwick discuss its integral role in the Arts Center's mission and how to keep it a priority in the coming years.

Video-recorded session with NYUAD students Malak Abdel-Ghaffar, Sara Pan Algarra, Alicja Borzyszkowska, and Ian Hoyt, recorded on Thursday, May 7, 2020, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. Recordings and transcripts are preserved in the NYUAD University Archives.

In this interview, NYUAD students Malak Abdel-Ghaffar, Sara Pan Algarra, Alicja Borzyszkowska, and Ian Hoyt reflect on their experiences as parts of the Student Interest Group (SIG) ElevatED, and in particular about their recent project: the children's book 'Where Is Our Home?' They tell the stories behind their involvement with ElevatED and the book in particular. They also share the process behind the book, such as brainstorming for ideas on the train in Turkey or drafting the book at Starbucks. They reflect on their first reactions to the printed book, and the obstacles they had to overcome to complete the project.

Video-recorded session with Peter Dicce, Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Athletics, recorded on June 2, 2020 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of the Memory Project. Recordings and transcripts are preserved in the NYUAD University Archives. Coach Peter Dicce reflects on his journey to NYU Abu Dhabi, from practicing law in the United States, to leading the Department of Athletics in NYUAD. He talks about building the department from a few students and informal teams, to getting uniforms, and then later becoming leaders in collegiate sports in the country. A major reason for this success comes from a concerted effort to create and build a community among students, coaches, and administrators, which was achieved through creating traditions and breaking down gender or social barriers. He describes the enjoyable process of creating more friendly competition and interaction through ADISL [Abu Dhabi Inter-University Sports League], as well as creating a logo and mascot for NYUAD, both of which encouraged neighbouring schools to participate. Coach Dicce fondly remembers the origins of many traditions such as the Sports Majlis, the semesterly Falcon Feast, Interclasico, and Defend the Nest.

Video-recorded session with Pantelis Demetriou, Instructor of Mechanical Engineering; Eyob Mengiste, Instructor of Civil Engineering; and Aicha Zekar, Associate Instructor of Civil Engineering, recorded on 2 July, 2020 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of the Memory Project.

Aicha reflects on her journey at NYUAD after joining the institution in 2016 alongside Eyob and Pantelis who were both part of the Global Academic Fellow (GAF) Program and are now instructors. Due to the nature of their instructor role, they describe their interesting experiences leading labs and creating experiments, which Eyob and Pantelis state have become more innovative since 2014. Aicha touches on the role of class size in forging closer connections with her students, which is also reflected in the wider community as they observe that there is a close-knit community amongst the instructors across departments, and between them and NYUAD's contracted staff, for example. Eyob and Pantelis describe their experiences in the GAF Program, which provided close communication channels between themselves and students, as well as inter-departmental connections. Additionally, they praise the J-term courses and the Engineers for Social Impact (EFSI) program for facilitating academic and personal growth through travel and opportunities to connect with many different types of people.

Video-recorded session with Phillip Panicker, Senior Lecturer and Coordinator of Engineering Academic Laboratories at NYUAD, recorded on 7 July, 2020 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library.

In this interview, Phillip Panicker discusses the early days of the Engineering program, the transition to the Saadiyat Campus, and the development of the Engineering for Social Impact (EFSI) program. Having grown up in the UAE, Panicker discusses his engineering background and how he became involved in logistics and teaching at NYUAD'S Center for Science and Engineering in Mussafah. He discusses the study projects, social experiences, and dining options available for those in the early Engineering program, and how they transitioned into wider traditions. He recounts the journey of NYUAD from an unimpressive and unknown program, to a hallmark institution of the city. The final half of the interview focuses on the development of the EFSI program. Proud of what the program has become, Panicker discusses its values, logistics, and evolution as realized by students, faculty, and staff.

Video-recorded session with Jim McGrath, Manager for Community Sports and Campus Recreation, recorded on 8 July, 2020 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, Jim McGrath discusses his journey from a stay-at-home dad and volunteer flag football coach to Community Sports and Campus Recreation Manager at NYU Abu Dhabi. Recounting his first spontaneous contact with NYUAD and Wayne Young in 2012, McGrath discusses the close community of the early DTC along with the many challenges establishing an athletics program without its own venues in the UAE. Centering the student experience and the role of athletics in the NYUAD community, McGrath shares humorous and exciting memories that highlight the inclusivity and spontaneity of student involvement. The later portions of the interview focus on NYUAD's role in building the inter-collegiate athletics scene in the UAE with a special emphasis on increasing the opportunities for female athletics not just within NYUAD, but across all the schools with which NYUAD cooperates and competes. McGrath concludes the interview by sharing about the bonds he has built with his students and those the students have built with each other through the Athletics program.

Video-recorded session with Amos Katz, Lecturer and Technical Manager of the Arts and Media at NYU Abu Dhabi, recorded on 8 July, 2020 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, Katz discusses his history with the NYUAD Arts program, specifically through his relationship with the Equipment Center. Coming from NYU Tisch and Singapore, Katz recounts the exciting energy and "pioneering spirit" of the early years of NYUAD. He tells the stories of the many challenges of setting up the Arts program at the DTC, specifically the logistics of procuring and managing Arts equipment. The interview also touches on struggles with loneliness and the challenges of feeling integrated into the city. Katz goes on to discuss the complicated challenges involved in moving to the Saadiyat campus, building the spaces and systems that define the present day Arts program – such as the Equipment Center -- and its relationship to the Library in particular. Throughout the interview Katz makes an effort to name all the people he worked with and express gratitude towards them.

Video-recorded session with Lyne Ismail, Athletic Administration and Special Projects Coordinator, and Head Coach of the Women's Soccer Team, recorded on 21 July, 2020 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of the Memory Project.

Lyne reflects on her journey with NYU Abu Dhabi Athletics, something she was heavily encouraged to do by Wayne Young even through the interview phase. She talks about the immense support she received from the department that felt more like a family, as she was able to attain her coaching certification while coaching the Women's Soccer Team. Her current role (at the time of the interview) is focused on the management of many traditional Athletic events like Interclasico, Falcon Feast and Defend the Nest. She was instrumental in the creation of SoccHer then leading to HerSports, which is able to connect NYU Abu Dhabi to the wider community. Overall, she is proud of the inclusion she has witnessed in sports within the region especially with regard to the Special Olympics and the popularity of women in sports.

Video-recorded session with NYUAD students Hafsa Ahmed, Vongai Mlambo, Zain Mustafa, Motoi Oyane, and Lier Qiu, recorded on Monday, 10 August 2020, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, recent graduates and members of the Executive Board of the Student Government -- Hafsa, Vongai, Zain, Motoi and Lier -- reflect on their time at NYUAD. They each share their first impressions of the campus and their favorite memories and challenges, ranging from their Candidate Weekend experiences and birthday celebrations to J-term courses, football games and First Year Writing Seminar. They talk about their motivations and roles in Eboard and discuss their journeys as members of the StuGov. The students also talk about the biggest issues the StuGov had to face during their participation, as well as the changes they made in the community. Finally, they discuss the hardest moments of their time in the StuGov Eboard.

Video-recorded session with Zain Mustafa and Guillermo Andres Schlamp, members of the Marhaba Team at NYU Abu Dhabi, recorded on Monday, 7 September, 2020, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, Zain and Guillermo reflect on their experiences as the long-term members of the Marhaba Team at NYUAD. They share their motivations behind joining the team, and their views on the goals, values, and structure of Marhaba and its role in the NYUAD community. They reflect on their personal memories in the team, and explain how Marhaba has changed over the years. At the same time, they name several Marhaba events that have stayed the same, such as Marhaba Dinner, Speed Chatting, and Talent Show. Zain and Guillermo discuss ways to encourage community-building on campus and navigating the interests of the student body and administration when welcoming first-year students.

Video-recorded session with NYUAD Dean of Engineering Samer Madanat, recorded on Tuesday, 8 September, 2020, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, Madanat recounts his engineering career, integration into the NYUAD Engineering Division, and efforts to expand and refine the division for the long-term goals of the University. After discussing his relationship to the Middle East and his time at Berkley, Madanat discusses his perspectives on transportation, engineering, and how those perspectives manifested in his work at NYUAD. Discussing the Division's expansion – particularly with a focus on the creation of the Bio-Engineering program – Madanat recounts anecdotes of intradivision and interdisciplinary cooperation. Impressed by many of his students, Madanat likewise speaks highly of the undergraduates he taught.

Video-recorded session with NYUAD students Hafsa Ahmed, Vongai Mlambo, Zain Mustafa and Lier Qiu, recorded on Friday, 18 September, 2020, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

Recent graduates Hafsa, Vongai, Zain and Lier reflect on their experiences as members of the Executive Board of the Student Government during the COVID-19 pandemic. They each discuss the challenges they had to face in those unprecedented times and the issues and students' concerns they had to prioritize. Some of those include navigating their conflicting roles and interests as simultaneously students and the StuGov members, maintaining a healthy work-life balance and advocating for students while avoiding the development of their dependency on the StuGov.

Video-recorded session with Siba Siddique class of 2018, recorded on 23 October, 2020 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

Siba Siddique reflects on her time at NYU Abu Dhabi as the first class to spend all four years on the Saadiyat campus. She describes NYUAD as a tight-knit community, in which she was able to take part through her many Foundations of Science classes, her participation in the women's basketball team, Muslim Students Association and Engineers For Social Impact (EFSI) program. Siba recalls many NYUAD traditions including the midnight surprise birthday gatherings held for friends, Midnight Breakfast and the changing of the lights on the dome of the Campus Center. Even as an alumnus, the NYUAD network is strong as she is able to maintain connections with other alumni and the wider community.

Video-recorded session with Krushika Patankar Class of 2015 alumnus, recorded on 23 October, 2020 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of the Memory Project.

Krushika details her experience with NYU Abu Dhabi, initially being hesitant about the institution after growing up in Oman, then later realising that NYUAD played a significant role in creating the person she has become. She became enthralled with the University after her experience at Candidate Weekend where she met peers from all over the world who had diverse languages and cultures. After coming to NYUAD her experiences with sharing food, her relationship with the dining hall staff and even the Sama fire, allowed her to feel a sense of belonging. Krushika became involved in many areas including the RealAD show, REACH, and Student Government. Krushika went through periods of adjustment, especially adapting to an American academic culture, and later adjusting to the move from downtown to the Saadiyat campus.

Video-recorded session with Felix Beck, Former Assistant Engineering Professor of Practice of Design, recorded on 29 November, 2020 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview Felix Beck discusses his journey to join and become progressively more integrated in NYUAD's Engineering program. In particular, Beck recounts his various projects related to teaching and exploring the field of design. Sharing stories of exciting student projects, inter-department collaborations, and artistic endeavors, Beck reflects on his time at NYUAD having recently begun a new chapter in his career before the date of recording. Beck pays particular attention to his work with plastic recycling through NYUAD's Plastic Recycling Research Lab, and creative institutional navigation in pursuit of his various enterprises. Beck concludes the interview by recalling moments in campus culture that brought him joy and meaning during his time as a campus community member.

Video-recorded session with Lorraine Adkins, Associate Director of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness at NYUAD, recorded on Wednesday, 16 December, 2020, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, Lorraine Adkins tells her story of joining NYUAD and working with and for the community. She shares her first impressions of the UAE, and reflects on the peculiarities of ensuring community safety in the Downtown Campus and Sama Tower, and later in the new campus on Saadiyat Island. Adkins discusses the importance of teamwork in the Public Safety Department and shares the traditions and approaches for building a cohesive team. She also discusses the role of females in Public Safety and reflects on the University's preparedness for emergencies, which was recently tested by the COVID-19 Pandemic.

Video-recorded Memory Project session with Terry May, Assistant Manager of the Equipment Center and Instructor for Camera and Lights at NYUAD, recorded on Thursday, 18 February, 2021, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, Terry May reflects on his life experiences from working as an electrician in a film industry in London to shifting to Dubai and then finally joining NYU Abu Dhabi (in 2015) as an employee in a newly operated Equipment Center. He shares how he was enthusiastic about working in the film industry right from his school days and later placed for an apprenticeship at the age of 17 in one of the biggest lighting companies in London. Later due to his medical condition and a job opportunity, he and his spouse moved to Dubai. Throughout the interview, he speaks about the growth of the Equipment Center in terms of its capacity and demands for equipment with the growing numbers of students every year. He describes his roles and responsibilities of taking account of all the associated equipment, assisting in running some film, music, and interactive media classes. He also shares his working plans and actions such as organized equipment placement/ storage systems, proper barcoding, and labeling, an accessible checkout or loan system, equipment deals (purchase and exchange) with world-class brands, etc. With the expansion of the resources and accessibility of the Equipment Center, he has also hired student assistants, who are trained closely by him via workshops and practical learning. He openly embraces that he loves to train and work with fresh minds and emphasizes the significance of a conducive working environment.

Video-recorded session with members of Gazelien Records, recorded on 25 February, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of the Memory Project.

Members of Gazelien Records describe their relationship with the University's student-led record label, and each other, which they describe as having a family-like feeling. Students and faculty from various disciplines, especially across the Arts, like Film and New Media, and Design, have been involved in the development of the label. The student and alumni members of Gazelien records describe the advantages of working with the label, which include training in multiple aspects of sound engineering, building a solid portfolio, dedicating long hours of work in the study and gaining cross-disciplinary knowledge. The interviewees mention how remote working has affected them, and affectionately recall working together on an important project before the University switched to remote learning in March.

Video-recorded session with Laura Assanmal and Kaashif Hajee (NYUAD Class of 2021), editors-in-chief of the student-led weekly publication The Gazelle, recorded on Tuesday, 2 March, 2021, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, Laura and Kaashif reflect on their experiences as contributors and editors-in-chief of The Gazelle, the student-led weekly publication at NYUAD. They share their views on the goals, values, and structure of the publication and its role in the NYUAD community and beyond. They also discuss the peculiarities of journalist work in the context of the UAE and the diverse campus environment, including the issues of sensitivity, defamation, censorship, and relationship with the University administration. In particular, they reflect on the ideas and processes behind the creation of Issue 180 #BlackLivesMatter, dedicated to the discussions about race, inclusivity, and belonging on campus and beyond. Laura and Kaashif share the traditions existing in the team and reflect on how their work was impacted by COVID-19.

Video-recorded session with Matteo Marciano, Toby Tinson, Goffredo Puccetti, Ivan Budnik, Reema Kaiali and Zain Mustafa, recorded on 4 March, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of the Memory Project.'

This session is a "Part 2" follow up recording with the Gazelien Records 2021 team. They discuss their experience at the record label, specifically focusing on the various projects that they have worked on before and during the Covid-19 pandemic. Two main projects include their work with the Labcast, a podcast produced in collaboration with the NYU Production Lab, as well as the production of the song 'From a Balcony'. The team mentions the various ways in which they adapted to produce works even with limited equipment and space, and participants in different locations. They also refer to their connections with the studio, to community members across campuses, and to NYUAD community musicians.

Video-recorded session with Muhammad Usman, Security Officer for Public Safety, recorded on Thursday, 11 March, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, Muhammad Usman reflects on his journey to NYU Abu Dhabi, from starting a job at a computer assembly store in Islamabad, Pakistan, to dropping his passion for studying and applying for G4S, learning the mandatory training and getting a position as a security officer at NYUAD -- a university he was initially drawn to because of great working conditions. He shares his story of the NYUAD interview process, working at the Downtown Campus at the CSE Lab, daily happenings (for example, handling all the keys to the doors on the campus instead of having the current master key) and the first few weeks adjusting to Arabic culture after hearing experiences from his father, uncle and cousins who worked in Saudi Arabia. Throughout the interview, he shares anecdotes that happened during his work as a security officer. Most importantly, Muhammad explains how at NYUAD, he feels respected both as a person and as an employee. He emphasizes that people are not discriminated against based on their job position, rather there is mutual respect in the NYUAD community. He adds that while working in different places on the campus, he loves working in the Library, because he gets to communicate with students through different greeting styles.

Video-recorded session with Library and IT Committee of NYUAD's Student Government (Anas Muhammad, Yaghsha Mir, Rameen Mahmood, Shehryar Hanif, and Jais Johnson Katoor) recorded on Friday, 19 March, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project, during a 2021 "Memory Project Week."

In this interview, the members of the Library and IT Committee start by sharing their own reasons for joining the committee - personal impact of the Library, the applicability of Library and IT elements in a remote environment, improving connectivity conditions for students, etc. Then, they reflect on their current work in the committee - from network connectivity to print services to software products, these members work on solving these concerns and providing equal opportunities for all students - and the future plans in terms of programming and organizing events. The Library and IT Committee members later explain their challenges with working in a remote environment and how they overcame these for themselves and for others through their work in the committee. Lastly, the members highlight how the work they do feels more important than ever because with online classes and other activities, with time, students are realizing the full potential of the internet to their benefit, and that the role of the committee is to aid every student in their remote journey to make a more accessible environment for all.

Video-recorded session with Mbiko Mayaka, NYU Abu Dhabi Class of 2023, recorded on Saturday, 20 March, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project, during a 2021 "Memory Project Week."

Mbiko Mayaka, NYUAD Class of 2023 from Zambia, Social Research and Public Policy major, shares details about her life before coming to NYUAD and after. Mbiko learned about NYUAD through a former student of the American International School who also studied at the NYUAD. By attending the American International School, Mbiko learned the importance of intercultural communication. Mbiko shares how bringing her experiences from home enabled her to draw connections between NYUAD and home. She talks about different cultural celebrations - Afrofest and Diwali, the classes she has taken - Khaleeji Music, Cultural Appropriation, Street Food, Arab music, Art of the Personal Essay, as well as kayaking, going to the beach, going into the city, trying different cuisines, and how her entire experience is a highlight. Focusing on the present moment enabled Mbiko to make the most out of her experience at the University.

Video-recorded session with Jonathan Lee and Nurpeiis Baimukan, NYU Abu Dhabi Class of 2021 and Jagged founders, recorded on Saturday, 20 March, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Librarian for Archives and Special Collections atNYUAD Library. Conducted as part of the Memory Project, during a 2021 "Memory Project Week."

In this session, Nurpeiis and Jonathan talk about their first impressions of NYU Abu Dhabi, what inspired them to start Jagged, the importance of mentorship in their lives, and participation in the StartAD competition. Jagged is an online platform that matches high school students with mentors that are from university. Initially, it started off as a mentorship program in Kazakhstan and Malaysia. Nurpeiis mentions how attending Nazarbayev Intellectual School and completing the IB program shaped his personality, and after coming to NYUAD, he wanted to give back to the community. After his sophomore year, Nurpeiis and his friends, fellow students from Kazakhstan, started an Izbasar mentorship program. Jonathan also shares Nurpeiis' sentiments, and after seeing the success of the mentorship program with 20 paired mentors and mentees in Kazakhstan, they expanded the program to Malaysia and renamed it to Jagged. Together with their friends, Alex Edwards and Dhabia Al Mansoori, the team pitched their idea at StartAD and NYU New York Venture competitions and also received funding from Sandooq Al Watan. Currently they have launched their first app on the App Store and developed a Jagged podcast.

Video-recorded session with Robert Titus, Director of the Department of Public Safety, and Norca Vincent, Assistant Director, recorded on Wednesday, 24 March, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

Robert Titus and Norca Vincent explain their journey to NYUAD and to the UAE -- the transition from New York, new experiences in Abu Dhabi, trips to the other Emirates, and their responsibilities in the Department of Public Safety. Both Robert and Norca explain how they adjusted to the NYUAD and UAE culture. They elaborate on the first few months of the outset of NYUAD -- they use the metaphor of a blank canvas -- highlighting the journey of Sama Tower and the first NYUAD campus, and integrating the staff workers. They talk about community adaptation both after the Sama fire, and in building stronger relationships with the people employed by the Department. Lastly, both Norca and Robert discuss the firsts -- first Candidate Weekend, first class, first Marhaba and more, as well as how the sense of community was built. Lastly, as most important milestones throughout the years, Norca reflects on the efforts of the NYUAD administration to include more African American and Latino contract staff, permanent employees, professors, while Robert reflects on collective work to enlarge the capacities to fit within the frame of the bigger Saadiyat Campus.

Video-recorded session with Alex Ko, Emília Vieira Branco, Jakub Jurkovic, Lucas Davidenco and Dino Kolonić, members of the Anchorage E-Board, recorded on 26 March, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

Four members of the Anchorage E-Board discuss their individual journeys with Anchorage, as well as the role of the SIG in the NYUAD community. They describe important events that they have held over Zoom such as Spooky Speed Dating, as well as long-standing events such as the Family Dinner. With some emotion, they discuss a moment of tension in the community when an article was published in the school newspaper The Gazelle. The team also reflects on the future, including the future role of Anchorage in the community and changes in the UAE.

Video-recorded Memory Project session with NYUAD students Tori Mondello and Morgane Motlik, recorded on Tuesday, March 16, 2021, and facilitated by Mate Hekfusz, a NYUAD student. Conducted and self-submitted to be added to The Memory Project collection.

In this interview, three friends (classmates) are sharing their NYUAD journey and campus experiences. Firstly, they start by sharing how they met each other, their Marhaba experiences and adjustment to campus life. Then, they speak about their engagements outside class: including SIGs, volunteering, assistantships, and birthdays. They share anecdotes about choosing NYUAD and their instantaneous family support/response. Mate and Morgane also talk about their schooling and their concern about their English accent, which they realize, it's not really a problem at NYUAD. Also, they talk about their off-campus travel, and assignment pressures. They also express their optimism for their senior year and their future career plans. They conclude on a message from the future to one another.

Video-recorded session with Katarina Holtzapple, Zhong (Zack) Chen, Jay Lee, Simran Motiani, Kamel Alsharif, REACH members, recorded on Tuesday, 27 April, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of the Memory Project.

REACH stands for Raising Empowered Advocates for Community Health, and was founded by Kamel Alsharif, Annalisa Galgano, and Eliza T. in 2015 under the supervision of Tina Wadhwa (Student Success and Well Being). In 2015, Kamel Alsharif, Class of 2017, noticed that there were not enough mental health support services for students (no professional counselors at the Health and Wellness Center), and following the mentality "See something - say something", he started REACH together with his friends. While REACH has an element of SIG (Student Interest Group) to it, such as students having interest in supporting mental health development, it exists outside of the SIG framework. The recruitment process for REACH members has changed and evolved over time, as well as the number of students who want to join REACH. REACH members take up different roles, including but not limited to: The Nook (peer-counseling service), social media (looking over social media accounts), treasurer (managing the budget), leading the group (training students). REACH is unique to NYU Abu Dhabi, and has played an integral role in debunking stereotypes about mental health. REACH also organizes so-called "legacy" events yearly, such as ordering banana pudding or bubble tea for the entire community, and hosting Doggy De-Stress. The nature of the event changes based on the health and safety regulations. Katarina Holtzapple, Class of 2020, also notes how the demographics among the REACH members has evolved over time, with more students from different backgrounds, such as Computer Science, joining the team.

Video-recorded session with Tina Wadhwa, Director of Student Success and Wellbeing, Annalisa Galgano, Liza Tait-Bailey, Nadeen Alalami, former REACH members, recorded on Friday, 30 April, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

REACH stands for Raising Empowered Advocates for Community Health, and was founded by Kamel Alsharif, Annalisa Galgano, and Eliza T. in 2015 under the supervision of Tina Wadhwa (Student Success and Well Being). This is Session 2 of 3 interview sessions about REACH.

Tina, Annalisa, Liza, and Nadeen share how they became a part of NYU Abu Dhabi, but also how they began working in REACH (Annalisa and Liza were part of the founding group for REACH). Annalisa explains how the REACH team wanted the program to have a holistic approach of student mental health and wellbeing, and then in conversation with Liza, discusses the importance of being there for one another and having the vision of starting a program. Then, Tina shares the story of the Mission and Vision activity during the conceptualization phase, and how the students were so engaged and proactive and how that activity impacted the narrative of the program for the future. Later on, everyone explains their perception of REACH's origin story - from the first few meetings and events, peer support activities and sessions, budget difficulties, low outreach, to continual progress and REACH becoming a household name. Then, all of them reflect on their mission to push for change and advocate for different things while supporting peers. Tina touches upon the skills that students acquire: validating, normalizing, refraining; also she discusses the intercept between the Health Promotion Office and REACH. Finally, everyone discusses how the impact of REACH remains with them after graduating, and that they carry REACH values with them throughout life.

Video-recorded Memory Project session with former REACH members Abdur Rehman, Dana AlHosani, Rida Zafar, and Brian Kim, recorded on Sunday, May 2, 2021, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

REACH stands for Raising Empowered Advocates for Community Health, and was founded by Kamel Alsharif, Annalisa Galgano, and Eliza T. in 2015 under the supervision of Tina Wadhwa (Student Success and Well Being). This is Session 3 of 3 interview sessions about REACH.

In this interview, Brian (current student) and three alumni -- Abdur Rehman, Dana AlHosani, and Rida Zafar -- share their experiences working with REACH. They start by explaining the significance and origin story of REACH. All of them restate that REACH is a student-led peer support initiative which mainly focuses on the physical and mental well-being of the community. Brian shares his experience on being a part of REACH from his freshman year. He also recalls the emergence of REACH from a limited role in the Health Promotion Office to an integral part of campus life and independent student body. Dana shares why she was intimidated to join REACH initially, but later with the help of Tina Wadhwa (from Health Promotion Office), she practiced role-playing and active listening that earned her a position in the REACH during her senior year. Rida talks about the most impressive programs of REACH; redefining success and anonymous failures in which different success and failure stories beyond academics are shared, and encourages students to look for their own successes and handle failures. Abdur talks about the other works of REACH, such as delivering Safe Alcohol Education, Sexual Misconduct, and Administrative meetings. In between, they also talk about their experience helping people with stress management, hosting Nook sessions (peer counselling) and their attachment with people both in and out of REACH.

Video-recorded session with former NYUAD Running Community Members - Corey Meyer (Class of 2015) and Ross Jiang (Class of 2020)- including Wayne Young, Director of Wellness recorded on Wednesday, June 23rd, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview session, the participants reflect on their journey to NYU Abu Dhabi and their experiences of building a compelling running community. They begin by sharing their first impressions of Abu Dhabi. Wayne and Corey reflect on the transition from the Sama Tower campus to the current Saadiyat campus, and subsequent changes in the athletics facilities including the indoor, outdoor tracks and a more sophisticated gym. Wayne and Corey also recall their initial struggle in building a running team, one reason being very few interested students. Wayne developed specific training programs and encouraged students in every way. Ross and Corey talk about their participation in different running events including the 10km race and Triathlon. Wayne emphasizes that over time he has built connections with different people in the UAE who invite and help NYUAD to take part in various events. Finally, everyone shares that the running spirit and team building was a valuable experience for them.

Video-recorded session with former NYUAD Running Community Members Matthew MacDonald (PE Curriculum Manager), Wayne Young (Director of Wellness), Ramon Wrzosek (Class of 2021) and including Alex Erdmann, former visiting scholar in the Computer Science department, on Wednesday, June 23rd, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, the members reflect on their journey to NYU Abu Dhabi, and their experiences of building a compelling running community. They begin by sharing about their arrival and first impressions of Abu Dhabi. Then, they discuss how they met each other. They recall a SIG called 'On Your Feet' which helped and encouraged students to join the running community. Alex reflects on his intense running practice all across Saadiyat Island. Ramon considers running as a factor of sound physical and mental health. Matthew shares the growth of the running community over the years from 5-10 students to 30-40 students on track. At the end, they all share their unique experience of the Wadi Bih cross country race from their practice to participating and having a memorable finish.

Video-recorded session with Suparna Mathur, Director of Community Outreach (2013-2021), recorded on Wednesday, September 1, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Archivist and Assistant Academic Librarian at the NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview session, Suparna Mathur discusses being from Toronto, Canada. She has South Asian Indian heritage but she has spent the majority of her life in Abu Dhabi, UAE, as she grew up there, studying at the American Community School (ACS). The earliest stages of her career were in Toronto, where she worked in the non-profit and public sector, fundraising campaigns, and event management. Later on, she moved back to Abu Dhabi to start a non-profit group connecting community charities and nonprofits with community members, which prompted Ms. Renee Dugan, her supervisor, to hire Suparna at NYU Abu Dhabi, after being formally introduced by the CEO of Aramex. She was very excited for the opportunity, having heard of no similar project in the region. Suparna started out as having an ambassador role, connecting her corporate work with NYUAD's first few initiatives, but through time, this evolved to a full-time position. Throughout the conversation, she explains how NYUAD's recognition was cultivated through dinners, meetings with partners and helping students give back to the community. She highlights the program pillars: working with middle and high school youth (peer mentorship), deepening work with individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities, and working with migrant communities in Abu Dhabi, immersing in the UAE culture and heritage, and lastly, environmental sustainability, all designed at Community Outreach. She ends by highlighting the students' engagement and involvement in creating a greater community.

Video-recorded session with the members of NYUAD Community Outreach - Renee Dugan, Suparna Mathur, on Sunday, September 19th, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, the members reflect on their journey and roles at NYU Abu Dhabi from its early days, and their experiences of building connections with a wider community/organizations. Renee shares her journey at NYUAD from its early days, starting as a Director of Admissions to founding Director of Community Outreach and current role as Associate Dean of Students and Director of Student Life. Similarly, Director of Community Outreach, Suparna, also shares about her experience working with NYUAD. Both reflect on their contributions and initiations in building a broad foundational network of NYUAD, approaching numerous academic and social groups/organizations and establishing NYUAD as a center for collaboration, especially regarding meaningful and sustainable engagement for students. Suparna recalls how Community Outreach worked hard to include a variety of volunteering opportunities and increasing their accessibility for students and staff. The two also shed light on how Community Outreach works collaboratively to prepare, plan, and execute programs keeping in mind the core mission of NYUAD and adding value to student life.

Video-recorded session with Theresa Powell, Deputy Chief for People and Performance at NYU Abu Dhabi, on Sunday, October 17th, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, Theresa shares about her journey to NYUAD, her contributions and experiences while working in the HR Office. She talks about her first impression of Abu Dhabi, the culture, people and climate, which are completely different from her previous workplaces back in London. She vividly recalls her first day at the Downtown campus and the warm welcome she received. She has fun memories of shifting to the Saadiyat campus and adjusting to new campus life. Theresa mentions the work she has accomplished, like the Saadiyat Social, hosting onboarding cultural orientation to the new staff and faculty, and employee service and recognition parties. Engaging, volunteering, and communicating with students is what excites her. Theresa, at the end, says she is very proud and happy for being part of NYUAD.

Video-recorded session with Dustin Harris, Senior Designer in the Public Affairs and Communication Team at NYU Abu Dhabi, on Wednesday, November 17th, 2021 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections at NYUAD. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, Dustin shares about his journey to NYUAD, his contributions and experiences while working as a Senior Designer in the Public Affairs and Communication Department. He shares how he first heard about NYUAD and his earliest impressions of Abu Dhabi. He speaks about his initial roles and responsibilities of collaborating, helping and setting expectations of his team regarding designing and branding of the university at a crucial transitional phase of a growing global institution. Dustin outlines his work which has ranged from maintaining public websites, ad campaigns, to hosting large events like Commencement ceremonies, and Marhaba. He fondly remembers the entire creative work process, put together resulting in the creation of a meaningful logo and tagline for the 10th Year Anniversary celebration.

Video-recorded session with Tegan Mc Duffie, Instructor of Project and Stage Management, recorded on January 9, 2022 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Archivist and Assistant Academic Librarian. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, Tegan describes how she got invited to be a stage manager for a production at NYUAD, which eventually led her to a full-time job. She explains her first impressions of Abu Dhabi, and then working at NYU Abu Dhabi on productions such as RealAD, but she also emphasizes best practices as an instructor and considerations around the cultural context of the country. She touches upon the important aspects of dealing with various equipment and how students have utilized equipment in their Capstone pieces. Tegan discusses NYUAD's signature theater programs and finally reflects on her personal experience and growth period while at NYUAD.

Video-recorded session, with John Pine, Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving at NYU Abu Dhabi, recorded on Monday, January 24, 2022, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Librarian for Archives and Special Collections, NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, John Pine, talks about his experience at NYU Abu Dhabi as Director of Alumni Relations and Annual Giving between 2018 and 2022. Prior to joining NYUAD, Pine served as Director of Outreach Programs at the NYU office in New York for five years. He shares that he was impressed by the diverse multicultural environment offered at NYU Abu Dhabi. As a Director of Alumni Relations, he created a strategic plan for improving alumni engagement with a focus on 4 key areas: 1) alumni-to-alumni engagement through traditional methods (e.g., events, regional programs, career support); 2) alumni-to-student support via mentorship and advising; 3) communications and marketing (sharing alumni stories in different media, e.g. social media, website); 4) philanthropy. Pine also shares his memories from organizing reunion dinners for alumni to sharing alumni stories in different mediums, such as Beyond Saadiyat and a podcast in collaboration with the Career Development Center.

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This is Session 1 of a two-session set of interviews conducted as part of Bryan Waterman's exiting NYUAD.

Note: there are two recordings in this first session; the first recording is the bulk of the interview, and then a 4-minute epilogue was added to describe Bryan's Zoom background, which is an image of artwork that was special to him.

[summary in process]

Video-recorded session with Deborah William - Clinical Full Professor at the School of Liberal Studies of New York University and facilitated by Lauren Kata - Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this interview, NYU affiliated faculty member Deborah Williams of the Literature and Creative Writing program delves into various aspects of her experience at NYU Abu Dhabi since the days of the Downtown campus. She highlighs student engagement and the evolution of the curriculum over time, as well as her involvement in initiating literary journals and community reading events. Williams also reflects on the residential aspect of campus life, sharing personal anecdotes about living accommodations and community dynamics. Additionally, she addresses pressing issues such as diversity, labor rights, and the quality of discourse within the institution, emphasizing the need for meaningful conversations and systemic change. Despite facing institutional challenges, Williams expresses appreciation for the extraordinary students and colleagues she has encountered at NYU Abu Dhabi.

[summary in process]

[summary in process]

Video-recorded session, with Sebastian Grube, former Community Engagement and Marketing Officer at NYU Abu Dhabi Art Gallery, recorded on Friday, June 24, 2022, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Librarian for Archives and Special Collections, NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

In this session, Sebastian Grube shares his experiences at NYU Abu Dhabi as a member of the Class of 2018 and a former Community Engagement and Marketing Officer at NYUAD Art Gallery. Grube shares how he experienced Candidate Weekend at Sama Tower and witnessed the Saadiyat campus construction. He also shares that interacting with upper class students who had lived in Sama Tower enabled him to get to know and navigate around Abu Dhabi better. The multicultural setting and academic interdisciplinarity offered at NYUAD changed Grube's perspective on what it means to be a global leader and assisted him throughout his journey as a Music and Theater program double major student, and as Art Gallery Community Engagement and Marketing officer. Grube is now looking to continue his journey as an artist who brings artistic sensibilities into business context

Video-recorded session with Judi Olson, Instructor of Costume Design and Arts and Humanities Representative on the Academic Staff Committee of Staff Council at NYUAD, recorded on Monday, July 4th, 2022, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Librarian for Archives and Special Collections, NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

Judi Olson graduated from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts in 2009 and joined NYU Abu Dhabi in 2012. Between 2012 and 2016, Olson worked part-time on theater productions and joined NYUAD full-time in 2016. During her first four years, she worked on multiple student productions such as The Ramayana, The Aeneid, A Dream Play, and The Odyssey. In this interview session, Olson talks about the fluidity of the theater program and the transient nature of NYUAD, as well as the challenges and accomplishments of the past six years. Olson also shares nostalgic memories of the brunch culture in Abu Dhabi as a tradition of the expat community in the UAE, and her participation in the Abu Dhabi Choral Group.

Video-recorded session with Jennifer McGlennon, Former Vice Provost of NYUAD Graduate Programs, facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections. Conducted as part of The Memory Project.

Jennifer McGlennon provides a comprehensive overview of her role as the founding Assistant Vice Provost of Graduate Programs at NYU Abu Dhabi. She shares her background in academia and consulting, including her involvement in educational projects across Indonesia, Australia, and the UAE. McGlennon reflects on the cultural shifts she witnessed in the UAE, particularly in Dubai, where she previously spearheaded educational initiatives. The interview delves into the complexities of establishing graduate programs at NYUAD, highlighting negotiations with department chairs in New York and the challenges of harmonizing institutional cultures across NYU's diverse schools. McGlennon emphasizes the importance of aligning resources and policies to support the needs of PhD students and faculty members, navigating funding arrangements and support services for international scholars. Throughout the discussion, McGlennon underscores the collaborative efforts between NYUAD and stakeholders, including the UAE government and NYU's central administration. She discusses the role of strategic research projects in shaping academic offerings and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, concluding by reflecting on NYUAD's evolution into a premier academic institution in the region.

Audio-recorded session with Hazel Lorena, recorded on [June 10, 2021] and facilitated by Laura Assanmal. Conducted as part of The Memory Project and as part of the Office of Social Responsibility's 10th Anniversary Book Project. The interview was conducted in-person. For the most part, there are only two people present at the interview site (the interviewer and interviewee), but at certain times, there are people passing by in the background.

In this interview session, Hazel Lorena shares her experiences and talks about the happiness brought by working abroad and at NYUAD, as well as about the challenges she faces. Hazel Lorena has been working at NYUAD since August, 2010 as a Public Safety Officer via G4S. Before coming to NYUAD, she lived in Manila, Philippines. She obtained her Bachelor's degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management, and upon graduation, she worked at Unilab, a pharmaceutical company in the Philippines. She later joined an agency in order to work abroad. She was 23 when she came to work in the Middle East and at the time of the interview had been working for 19 years. Lorena has previously worked as a receptionist at Montgomerie Golf Club in Dubai, as a waitress at a restaurant in Qatar, and later joined the security team at NYUAD. She shares her memories of the first class of NYUAD at Sama Tower and adult education classes offered by the Office of Social Responsibility. Despite the challenges, Hazel Lorena is very glad to be a member of the NYUAD community and regards NYU as one big family.

Audio-recorded Memory Project session with Public Safety (G4S) officer, Serkalem Bekele, recorded on the 8th of June, 2021, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, a PPTP student for the Office of Social Responsibility and conducted as part of OSR's 10-year project and The Memory Project. The interview was conducted in-person. For the most part, there are only two people present at the interview site (the interviewer and interviewee), but at certain times, there are people passing by in the background.

In this interview, Serkalem Bekele, Public Safety (G4S) officer, shares her family story, work life, and her journey to NYUAD. She starts by talking about her home (Ethiopia), family, languages she speaks (Amharic, English, Arabic) and her education background (Computer Engineering). Then, she shares about her first arrival to the UAE back in 2005. She mentions about her jobs in different places like Dubai Mall, Abu Dhabi University, the British Embassy and finally in NYUAD. Serkalem also talks about the changes she has seen at NYUAD from a small downtown Sama Tower campus to a huge Saadiyat campus with growing numbers of students and staff over the years. She also added motivating words that during difficult times we should not only focus on problems but on solutions and resolve them. In the end, she appreciates the working environment and the opportunities (language and life-skills courses) provided by OSR for their holistic development.

Audio-recorded session with Fathia Omar, Controlling Supervisor, recorded on Tuesday, June 8, 2021, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, PPTP student. Conducted as part of the Office of Social Responsibility (OSR) 10 Year Project/Memory Project Partnership. The interview took place on the ground floor of C2, in front of the Office for Social Responsibility in NYU Abu Dhabi. There are two people present at the interview site - the interviewer and interviewee. There is slight background noise at 03:35, perhaps from Fathia's co-workers.

Fathia describes her work in the camera control room and the role of a supervisor in the Security Office; her origin story of Berbera, Somalia, and the UAE; her language skills: Somali, English, Arabic, and her education, which was in UAE government schools, allowing her to get immersed in the Arabic culture. Regarding her journey to NYU Abu Dhabi — a friend told her that G4S is hiring, and she started in Al Ain, but then got invited to join NYUAD in 2010, and got interviewed by Mr. Robert Titus and Ms. Norca Vincent, getting accepted in the end. She wanted to work at NYUAD because she wanted to become independent and responsible — the support from her family helped her along the way. What she likes about the NYUAD community is that she met wonderful, diverse people, but a challenge has been the separation from her family. Lastly, Fathia reflects on possible plans for the future, which for her are studying in medical school to become a phlebotomist.

Audio-recorded Memory Project session with Yasir Ur Rehman, Control Room Operator in Public Safety Department, recorded on the 9th of June, 2021, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, a PPTP student for the Office of Social Responsibility and conducted as part of OSR's 10-year project and The Memory Project. The interview was recorded in-person on campus. It took place in the C2 building, outside the OSR's office.

In this interview, Yasir Ur Rehman, Control Room Operator in Public Safety, shares his family background, life events, work life, and his journey to NYUAD. He starts by talking about his home in Islamabad, Pakistan, languages he speaks (Pothwari, Urdu, English, Arabic), and his education progression. He talks about his clerical job in the Ministry of Education (Islamabad). During that time, he was influenced by his cousin, so he applied for a G4S visa and moved to the UAE in 2005. He tells of his early struggles at his new workplace with long working hours and low salary, and poor accommodation. After a year, he returned to Pakistan for marriage and again came back to UAE in May 2008. One day, he heard about NYUAD, so he decided to apply and later got accepted. He marks it as one of the most successful events of his life. Yasir also explains about his day-to-day work at NYUAD- handling the public safety control room. Yasir happily shares about his family responsibility, love for his daughter, and expectations from his son. He repeatedly appreciates the caring and humble working environment and management of NYUAD.

Audio-recorded session with Jayaprakash Subramanian, Security Officer, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, PPTP student. Conducted as part of the Office of Social Responsibility (OSR) 10 Year Project/Memory Project Partnership. The location of the interview is C2 building, in front of the Office of Social Responsibility, NYUAD Saadiyat Campus.

Jayaprakash describes his home in India, and how he comes from a farmer's family; he speaks Hindi and English. In 2008, he joined G4S, then two years later the company sent him on an interview at NYU Abu Dhabi, and he got the job in August, 2010. Before NYUAD, he had multiple jobs, working in New Delhi at a bakery, and an advertising agency. In his free time, he likes to cook, watch movies, and meet up with friends (although due to COVID he is limited in that regard). He has taken almost all OSR courses: Public Speaking, Intermediate English, Creative Writing, Excel Crash Course...He likes that he has become financially independent throughout his time at NYUAD, but he misses his family. He is looking forward to his daughter's graduation from high school and a continuation of a stable, secure life.

Audio-recorded session with Andrew Moriasi, Security Officer, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, PPTP student. Conducted as part of the Office of Social Responsibility (OSR) 10 year Project/Memory Project Partnership. The location of the interview is C2 building, in front of the Office of Social Responsibility, NYUAD Saadiyat Campus.

Andrew came to the UAE in 2007 and found work as a Security Officer, but then shortly after got the opportunity to do an interview with NYU Abu Dhabi and got the job as a Security Officer, where he received training, but he did additional studying on his own - he went on Coursera and got certified in First Aid and Mental First Aid, as a way to help his friends in crisis situations. He received certification in Religious Tolerance as well. Andrew reveals that he obtained a degree in Food Science in his home country -- Kenya -- and managed to teach his colleagues how to cook.

He discusses how NYUAD allowed him to become financially stable and contribute to his children's college education and that he manages to call them every day to hear how they are doing. When asked, he tells Laura about the OSR courses. Then, Andrew shares that he had COVID in April, 2020, and how he felt during that time (fear of the unknown, solace in friendship) and that he managed to recover in about two weeks. Lastly, he shares what he likes most about working at NYUAD.

Audio-recorded session with Lilia Espanola Francisco, recorded on Thursday, June 10th, 2021 and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, PPTP student. Conducted as part of the Office of Social Responsibility NYUAD 10 Years book project, in partnership with The Memory Project.

Lilia Francisco has been working at NYUAD as a Security guard with the Public Safety team for ten years. She is from San Mariano, the Philippines. After their family business went bankrupt, Lilia decided to work abroad, leaving behind her husband and four children. Initially, she was supposed to work in Afghanistan, however upon her arrival to the UAE in order to cross the border, she learned about a vacancy at NYUAD. Without prior experience of working in Public Safety, she completed the necessary training and participated in adult education courses - mainly in English language and IELTS preparatory courses. While it is difficult to be far away from her family, Lilia is working tirelessly to ensure a good quality of life for her children.

Audio-recorded session with Thomas Mathew Kulathingal, Public Safety Officer, recorded on Thursday, June 10th, 2021 and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, from the Office of Social Responsibility. Conducted as part of The Memory Project and as part of the Office of Social Responsibility's 10th Anniversary Book Project.

Thomas Mathew Kulathingal has started his 12th year at NYUAD as a Public Safety Officer. He is originally from Kerala, in the southern part of India, but he has been in Abu Dhabi since 2006. Thomas Mathew Kulathingal speaks Malayalam, Hindi, Tamil, and a little bit of Kanera language, as well as English. Back in Kerala, he completed a pre-degree program and continued his studies in a technical institute, and worked in agricultural business. After working in Kerala, he came to Abu Dhabi in November, 2006. He saw the NYUAD building in downtown Abu Dhabi while it was still in construction, and later sent his CV and got invited for an interview. During his time at NYUAD, Thomas Kulathingal took classes on Financial literacy, PowerPoint, Excel, Theatre, Photography, and Public speaking. While the pandemic has impacted the way the staff spend their leisure time and visit their families back home, Thomas Mathew Kulathingal also uses his free time to talk to his family and try out new recipes.

Audio interview session with Kavitha Karunakarakurup, Public Safety (G4S) officer, recorded on Tuesday, 15th June, 2021, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, a PPTP student for the Office of Social Responsibility(OSR). Conducted as part of the OSR's 10 Years at NYUAD Book Project, in partnership with The Memory Project. The interview was recorded in-person on campus. It took place in the C2 building, outside the OSR's office.

in Kerala, India, languages she speaks (Malayalam, Hindi,and English), and her education progression (B.A. in history). Kavita reflects on her work as a stenographer back in New Delhi for 8 years. Next, she speaks about her initial struggle at different workplaces (MENA Building, Emirates Palace) after moving to the UAE. She shares how glad she was to get a job offer at NYUAD. She also describes her role working as Public Safety Officer on the highline. She talks about the significance of the English language course that she took (offered by the OSR). She mentions that she's been financially independent and has built a house while looking after the family. Finally, she reveals her interest in gardening and how she grows vegetables and plants.

Audio-recorded session with Sonu Thomas, Light Driver for Global Wings, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, PPTP student. Conducted as part of the Office of Social Responsibility (OSR) 10 year Project/Memory Project Partnership. The location of the interview is The Welcome Center of NYUAD, Saadiyat Campus. There are two people present at the interview site - the interviewer and interviewee. There is a short, loud thud at 02:40. At 09:05, Sonu looks for a picture of the house he built in India to show Laura. At 09:51-10:06, Sonu looks up his wife's Youtube channel and Facebook page, and at 10:07 he plays the song for Laura. At 10:35, there is another short, loud thud.

Sonu Thomas is from Kerala, India, and before NYUAD he was working in Delhi in an electronics company. He came to Dubai, UAE in 2003, after his friends told him about the possibilities there, and then in 2005 he took a vacation to get married in India. But he returned with his wife immediately to Dubai, and in 2007 he moved to Abu Dhabi, where his wife got the job of a professional Malayalee singer (her main occupation is a nurse at Corniche Hospital). His two daughters are studying in Abu Dhabi. Throughout working for Abu Dhabi, he changed employment in three different companies related to driving. He got accepted to work for NYUAD at the very beginning, when there were only two drivers. He has taken two OSR courses: English and Arabic. He is satisfied with his NYUAD job, and it has allowed him and his family to lead a comfortable life. He built a home for his parents back in India.

Audio-recorded session with Abdul Jaleel, Bus Driver, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, PPTP student. Conducted as part of the Office of Social Responsibility (OSR) 10 year Project/Memory Project Partnership.

In this interview session, Abdul talks about his origin - he is from the village of Kerala, India, and he came directly from there to Abu Dhabi. He speaks Malayalam. Before working at NYUAD, he was working at a maintenance company in Abu Dhabi. He transferred from Global Wings to NYUAD. His kids are back in Kerala, studying, and he sees them whenever he visits. At NYUAD, he drives the shuttle from campus to Yas Mall and Al Wadha. He took some OSR classes at DTC, when NYUAD was at the Downtown Campus. With the salary from NYUAD, he was able to build a home back in Kerala and help his children pursue a better education.

Audio-recorded session with Tara Gurung, Public Safety Officer, recorded on Monday, June 21st, 2021, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, Office of Social Responsibility PPTP Student. Conducted as part of The Memory Project and the 10th Anniversary Book Project. The interview takes place outside the Office of Social Responsibility office, on the Ground floor of NYUAD campus on Saadiyat Island.

Tara Gurung is a Public Safety Officer that specializes in Access Control and Customer Service. She is originally from Itahari area, Nepal, 8 hours away from the capital city of Kathmandu. In addition to English, Tara speaks Nepali, Hindi, and a bit of Arabic. Prior to joining NYUAD, she worked as a primary school teacher back in Nepal. Tara joined G4S and arrived in the UAE on April 16, 2008, and she joined NYUAD as a Public Safety Officer on March 6, 2010. During her time here, Tara participated in workshops provided by the Office of Social Responsibility on computer literacy and cooking. In this session, Tara also shares her memories about Sama Tower. She dedicates her free time to keeping in touch with her family, and hopes to go back to Nepal in the future and be with them.

Audio-recorded session with Mohammed Hoque, Worker at ADNH, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, PPTP student. Conducted as part of the Office of Social Responsibility (OSR) 10 year Project/Memory Project Partnership. The interview takes place outside of the Office of Social Responsibility, Ground floor of C2, NYUAD, Saadiyat Campus. There are two people present at the interview site - the interviewer and interviewee. At 14:37, 16:45, 17:06, 17:43, 24:15, several people are talking in the background. At 17:49, there is a quick, sharp sound, perhaps from a microphone. At 31:32, 31:43, some people are passing by with a cleaning cart.

Mohammed Haque is from Lakshmipur District, near Meghna River, Bangladesh. He was working in Saudi Arabia, for Saudi Arabian Airlines, then he joined NYU Abu Dhabi in 2011, and throughout his time at NYUAD, he has worked in multiple positions under ADNH - dining hall and coffee shops at Sama Tower, and even as a Store Clerk in 2014. He has taken English courses at OSR and has attended multiple workshops. He speaks Bengali, English, and Arabic. He worked at the Airlines until 2007, and for a short period of time he went back home to Bangladesh and immediately returned to Abu Dhabi, finding a job at the Abu Dhabi Court. Throughout the interview, he explains Bangladeshi culture and the feeling of responsibility of being the breadwinner. He also states that he talks to his family two to three times a day and that he is able to financially support his wife who is sick, thanking NYUAD for that possibility. He then goes on to describe his job position in Saudi Arabia, opportunities for investment with his friend, and taking care of his family, especially his wife who had to undergo surgery. In the future, he plans to open up a water-based business and he is looking forward to the day when his children study at NYUAD.

Interview session with Earnie Agramonte Odieres, Assistant Chef at NYUAD Dining Department, recorded on Monday, 21st June, 2021, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, a PPTP student for the Office of Social Responsibility(OSR). Conducted as part of the OSR's 10 Years at NYUAD Book Project, in partnership with The Memory Project. The interview took place at the Torch Club (top of D2).

In this interview, Earnie shares about his family, life events, work life, and his journey to NYUAD. He describes his role working as Assistant Chef, planning and preparing the cold and hot kitchen. He shares about his home in Visayas, Philippines, languages he speaks (English, Tagalog, Hiligayhon), and his education progression (Bachelor of Science in Education). Earnie reflects on his work as a high school teacher back in the Philippines for six months before moving to the UAE. Next, he mentions that he was very lucky to have his first job (started as waiter) at NYUAD. Earnie also reveals the difference he has seen from Sama Tower DTC to the larger Saadiyat Campus. He mentions that he's been financially independent and has built a house, bought land, and started a small renting business. Finally, he appreciates the English course he has taken, which was offered by the OSR, and says he loves everyone at NYUAD.

Interview session with Nadir Khan, Shift Supervisor in Public Safety, recorded on Tuesday, 22nd June, 2021, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, a PPTP student for the Office of Social Responsibility(OSR). Conducted as part of the OSR's 10 Years at NYUAD Book Project, in partnership with The Memory Project. The interview was recorded over Zoom.

In this interview, Nadir shares about his family, life events, work life, and his journey to NYUAD. He describes his role working as Shift Supervisor, deploying and looking after the requirements of his colleagues. He speaks about his home in Kashmir, Pakistan, languages he speaks (Urdu, English), and his education progression (Intermediate in Commerce). Nadir reflects on his work in the Pakistani Armed Forces for six years and his resignation. Next, he mentions his first work in the UAE in the Armed Forces Officer Club at Abu Dhabi. He shares how glad he was to get a job offer at NYUAD. Nadir also reveals the difference he has seen from Sama Tower DTC to the larger Saadiyat Campus. He talks about the significance of different language and computer courses that he has taken (offered by the OSR). He mentions that he's been financially independent and has built a house while looking after the family. Finally, he proudly says that he loves every moment spent at NYUAD and hopes to return to his home country in near future.

Audio-recorded session with Lailani Vidal, Senior Administrator at Serco, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, PPTP student. Conducted as part of the Office of Social Responsibility (OSR) 10 year Project/Memory Project Partnership. The interview takes place outside of the Office of Social Responsibility, on the ground floor of C2, at NYU Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island. There are two people present at the interview site - the interviewer and the interviewee. At 24:52-25:58, loud yelling and talking noises from children are noticeable.

Lailani started working for NYUAD in 2010, at the Downtown Campus as an Administrative Assistant for Facility Management under Serco. She explains the difference between soft and hard services in the industry, and she explains her and her colleagues' responsibilities in this job, emphasizing teamwork as crucial for the success of their jobs. She is from the Philippines and she speaks Tagalog, English, and a little bit of Japanese because she worked for a Japanese company back home. She opens up about her struggles obtaining a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, and how she managed to work in the morning, and study in the afternoon. Then, she reflects on financial struggles and climbing ladders at NYUAD, as well as starting out in the UAE and slowly bringing her family there. She developed a plan for taking care of her kids in agreement with her husband in light of Covid-19, thanks to the flexibility of working from home by Serco. Her intentions for the future include creating a business in the Philippines, probably in the IT sector. She reflects on her time in DTC, and she states that she's taken the English, Arabic, and Excel OSR courses while encouraging other Filipino staff to participate in the programs. She explains that one of her boys will participate in the Boys Education Network, for which Lailani is really excited, and that the other loves spending time at NYUAD. She ends by sharing words of encouragement she tells her oldest son.

Audio-recorded session with Richelle Vallejos, Security Officer, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, PPTP student. Conducted as part of the Office of Social Responsibility (OSR) 10 year Project/Memory Project Partnership.

In this interview session, Richelle talks about herself, her family, previous employment, working at NYUAD, and hopes for the future. She is from the Philippines and she is a Security Officer in A1B. She speaks English and Tagalog. She has an undergraduate degree in Computer Security. Her father used to work in the UAE, and he brought her here. With the help of her aunt, who was working in G4S, she managed to get a job there. She came to the UAE, hoping to help out her family, because back home Richelle and her family did not have land or a house, so they stayed with her aunt for about two years. Her father—who worked in a construction company—financially helped them build a house. Then, two out of her three brothers moved to the UAE. She was able to take an English course which is offered by the Office of Social Responsibility. Her plans for the future include moving home to spend some time with her family and potentially finding love and building a family.

Audio-recorded session with Madel De la Cruz, CCTV Supervisor, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, PPTP student. Conducted as part of the Office of Social Responsibility (OSR) 10 year Project/Memory Project Partnership. The interview takes place outside of the Office of Social Responsibility, on the ground floor of C2, at NYU Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island. There are two people present at the interview site - the interviewer and the interviewee. At 11:45, there is light talking in the background, which slowly by 14:00 starts getting louder.

In this interview session, Madel shares stories of her life before and during working at NYU Abu Dhabi. She starts by saying that she was born and lived close to Manila, Philippines. She speaks Tagalog and English. While in the Philippines, she graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Computer Engineering, and she worked there for about six years, in accounting for a newspaper company rather than her field. Then, a friend told her about a great opportunity for work at G4S in the UAE. Madel was interested in the idea and decided to apply to work for G4S in NYUAD. Throughout the years, she managed to transform her role from a Control Room Operator to a Control Room Supervisor, spanning her career at NYUAD to 11 years and counting. What she especially likes about the working environment there is that even security guards are taken care of, and made to feel comfortable. Madel was a part of the DTC Campus as well, in Sama Tower, and she draws a comparison between the two campuses, saying that Saadiyat is bigger and it's harder to get to know everyone. Then, she reflects on her relationship with her daughter and opens up about a difficult life event with her mother. Madel has taken English and Financial Literacy courses, and Computer classes. She shares some memorable events at NYUAD like Iftar and Staff Appreciation Week and hopes to perhaps move to Canada with her daughter in the future.

Audio-recorded session with Bakht Munir Khan, Security Officer at Public Safety, and facilitated by Laura Assanmal, PPTP student. Conducted as part of the Office of Social Responsibility (OSR) 10 year Project/Memory Project Partnership.

Bakht is from Nowshera, Pakistan and works at NYU Abu Dhabi's Public Safety Office. He speaks English, Urdu, Pashto, and a little bit of Arabic. Before coming to NYUAD, he spent some time helping his brother with shopkeeping, but he was jobless. Then, he applied to a job position he saw in the newspaper, had an interview in Islamabad, and got accepted to first join the Officers' Club in Abu Dhabi, and then join NYUAD. He wants to spend as much time as he can in Abu Dhabi, giving his three kids the opportunity to receive quality education. Bakht is very connected to his family and takes care of his wife and kids every day. He really likes his position at NYUAD, as he is constantly learning something new from the students and staff. He has taken English classes, and started taking Arabic classes, but unfortunately they got postponed in March 2020. He is grateful for the opportunities to attend workshops and classes. His plan for the future is to give quality education to his kids, just like NYUAD students.

Audio-recorded session with Shihuabudeen, Light Driver, facilitated by Laura Assanmal, PPTP student. Conducted as part of the Office of Social Responsibility (OSR) 10 year Project/Memory Project Partnership.

Shihuabudeen is from Kerala, India. He moved to the UAE in 2002, looking for better job opportunities and a better salary. He has switched workplaces, working at one company with his father in the fruits and vegetables district near Souq Mina, then working at another company in Abu Dhabi. Finally he began working at NYU Abu Dhabi. He has four children, the oldest one being in tenth grade. He recalls a memory over the course of 10 years at NYUAD, when he took some students on a trip. For the future, he hopes to bring his family to Abu Dhabi and offer them a better life there.

Audio-recorded session with Jeevan Puthiyaveetil, Driver at the Transport Department, facilitated by Laura Assanmal, PPTP student. Conducted as part of the Office of Social Responsibility (OSR) 10 year Project/Memory Project Partnership.

Jeevan is from Kerala, India and he really likes the weather there. He works as a driver at the transport department of NYUAD. He has worked for 35 years of his life - spending 10 years in Saudi Arabia as a trailer driver, then in Dubai and Sharjah before moving to a position at NYUAD in 2011 through Global Wings. What made him change different job positions was usually the low salary. He came to the UAE in 1999. He is very thankful to NYUAD for giving him opportunities he never could have imagined - one of which is giving his children quality education. He is proud to say that one son is working in Dubai while the other studies medicine in the Philippines, at a U.S. university. With the help of the NYUAD salary, he was able to build a home back in India. He finished Business English 1 and 2 courses with the Office of Social Responsibility. Some of his dreams for the future are for his youngest son to finish his education and for his eldest to get a job at NYUAD.

Video-recorded session, with Francis Fourie, NYUAD Library Assistant, recorded on 08/11/2022, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, NYUAD University Archivist. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to celebrating the memories, experiences, traditions, stories and community history of NYU Abu Dhabi. Interviews will be preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives.

In this oral history interview, Francis Fourie reflects on her career in librarianship and her experiences as a member of the New York University Abu Dhabi Library staff. She discusses her professional journey from South Africa to the United States and ultimately to Abu Dhabi, describing how her previous library experience informed her work at NYUAD. Fourie recalls the University's formative years at the Downtown Campus and Sama Tower, reflecting on the transition to the permanent campus on Saadiyat Island and the changes it brought to campus life. Throughout the interview, she emphasizes the close-knit community that characterized NYUAD's early years, highlighting the collegiality, kindness, and collaborative spirit among faculty, staff, and students. She also reflects on supporting students through her work in the Library and as a First Year Dialogue mentor. The interview provides insight into the development of the NYUAD Library and the community culture that shaped the University's early institutional identity.

Video-recorded session with Rawdha Rashed Almansoori, Research Outreach, and Nouf Al Hamly, Associate Director of Research Outreach, recorded on 09/12/2022, and facilitated by Lauren Kata NYUAD University Archivist. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to celebrating the memories, experiences, traditions, stories and community history of NYU Abu Dhabi. Interviews will be preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives.

In this oral history interview, Nouf and Rawdha reflect on their work advancing research engagement and public outreach at New York University Abu Dhabi. They discuss the University's evolution from the collaborative atmosphere of the Downtown Campus to the expanded opportunities afforded by the Saadiyat campus, describing how institutional growth strengthened interdisciplinary partnerships and community engagement. The interview explores efforts to make research more accessible through science communication and public programming, including initiatives that incorporate Emirati knowledge and local perspectives into research practice. Al Hamly and Rhodes also discuss the development of the Citizen Researcher program, highlighting its interdisciplinary approach, collaboration with students and faculty, outreach to schools and community organizations, and adaptation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through examples drawn from both the sciences and the humanities, they emphasize the importance of public participation, collaboration, and inclusive approaches to research that connect academic scholarship with the wider community.

Video-recorded session with Bonnie Sutherland, Library Assistant in Acquisitions, recorded on 09/12/2022, and facilitated by Lauren Kata NYUAD University Archivist. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to celebrating the memories, experiences, traditions, stories and community history of NYU Abu Dhabi. Interviews will be preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives.

In this oral history interview, Bonnie Sutherland reflects on her career as a library acquisitions assistant at New York University Abu Dhabi and her journey from Jamaica to Abu Dhabi. She describes her transition from a career in nursing to librarianship through volunteer work at her children's school, eventually joining the NYUAD Library during the University's early years at the Downtown Campus. Sutherland recalls the close-knit atmosphere of the early campus, reflecting on the collaborative relationships among library staff, faculty, and students and the practical challenges of supporting library services in a small, rapidly growing institution. She discusses the transition to the Saadiyat campus, the expansion of library operations, and the evolving needs of the University community. Throughout the interview, Sutherland emphasizes the importance of service, adaptability, and community, illustrating how her work in the Library contributed to the University's growth while fostering meaningful connections with colleagues and students.

Video-recorded session with Mayada Oudah - Medisearch Associate at Social Science Experimental Lab, recorded on 2023-11–6 and facilitated by Lauren Kata - Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to celebrating the memories, experiences, traditions, stories and community history of NYU Abu Dhabi. Interviews will be preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives.

In this oral history interview, Mayada Oudah reflects on her academic career and research in computer science, artificial intelligence, and human-robot interaction, describing her transition to interdisciplinary research integrating biometrics, virtual reality, and behavioral science. She discusses joining New York University Abu Dhabi and the University's growing research environment before turning to her longstanding involvement in caring for the campus cat population. Oudah recounts the development of NYUAD's Trap-Neuter-Return program, describing how collaboration among students, faculty, staff, veterinarians, and University leadership helped establish a sustainable approach to animal welfare on campus. She reflects on balancing the needs of the cats with those of the campus community, addressing misconceptions about free-roaming cats, and building support for responsible colony management. Throughout the interview, Oudah emphasizes the importance of community engagement, education, and compassion, illustrating how informal grassroots initiatives became an enduring part of campus life.

Video-recorded session with Githmi Rabel - Co-editor in Chief, Huma Umar - Co-editor in Chief, Sidra Dahhan - Managing Editor, Stefan Mitikj - Managing Editor, recorded on 2023-21–05 and facilitated by Lauren Kata - Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to celebrating the memories, experiences, traditions, stories and community history of NYU Abu Dhabi. Interviews will be preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives.

In this oral history interview, Githmi Rabel, Huma Umar, Sidra Dahhan, and Stefan Mitikj, members of the 2022–2023 editorial team of The Gazelle, reflect on their experiences leading New York University Abu Dhabi's independent student newspaper. They discuss their individual paths from student writers to editors while describing the collaborative process of producing a weekly publication within a diverse international university community. The interview explores The Gazelle's role in amplifying student voices, providing nuanced coverage of local, regional, and global issues, and reporting on topics affecting the Middle East and the Global South that are often underrepresented in mainstream media. The editors also reflect on the responsibilities of student journalism, including maintaining editorial independence, navigating cultural and institutional contexts, balancing accountability with student safety, and making thoughtful editorial decisions. Throughout the interview, they emphasize The Gazelle's commitment to ethical, inclusive journalism and its role in fostering dialogue within the NYUAD community and beyond.

In this oral history interview, Mohammed Muqbel, Roudha Almarzouqui, Aisha Alhammadi, Fatima Al Breiki, Mohammad Amjed, and Shamma AlMansoori reflect on their experiences leading Al Diwan, New York University Abu Dhabi's student interest group dedicated to Arabic poetry and literature. They discuss founding the organization to create a welcoming space for students to engage with Arabic literary traditions and cultural expression within the University's diverse international community. The interview explores the significance of Arabic poetry in fostering cultural identity while emphasizing that curiosity and enthusiasm, rather than language proficiency, are the primary requirements for participation. The members also describe efforts to expand the group's activities through discussions of Arabic literature, public poetry readings, and creative writing workshops that encourage students to compose and share their own work. Throughout the interview, they emphasize community, inclusivity, and the importance of sustaining Arabic literary traditions while creating opportunities for cultural exchange at NYUAD.

Video-recorded session with Peter Christensen - NYU Abu Dhabi's Chief Administrator and Business Officer and facilitated by Lauren Kata - Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to celebrating the memories, experiences, traditions, stories and community history of NYU Abu Dhabi. Interviews will be preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives.

In this oral history interview, Peter L. Christensen reflects on his leadership in the governance and administration of New York University Abu Dhabi, discussing how finance, facilities, information technology, procurement, and campus operations support the University's academic mission. He describes NYUAD's distinctive governance structure and the collaborative planning processes between New York University and Tamkeen that guide institutional priorities, budgeting, and long-term development. Christensen reflects on the University's evolution from its entrepreneurial early years into a mature institution with established administrative systems while emphasizing the importance of aligning operational resources with teaching, research, and student success. Throughout the interview, he expresses appreciation for the sustained support provided by Tamkeen and reflects on the culture of optimism, collaboration, and possibility that has characterized NYUAD's development. The interview offers insight into the governance, operational philosophy, and institutional stewardship that have shaped the University's growth.

Video-recorded session with James Weston, Matthew J O'Connor, Rachid Rezgui facilitated by Lauren Kata - Assistant Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to celebrating the memories, experiences, traditions, stories and community history of NYU Abu Dhabi. Interviews will be preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives.

In this oral history interview, James Weston, Matthew O'Connor, and Rachid Rezgui reflect on their work as Research Instrumentation Scientists within New York University Abu Dhabi's Core Technology Platform. They discuss the development of the University's shared scientific research infrastructure, describing how the Core Technology Platform provides researchers across multiple disciplines with access to advanced instrumentation and technical expertise. The interview explores the challenges of relocating laboratories and specialized equipment from the Center for Science and Engineering in Musaffah to the Saadiyat campus, as well as adapting laboratory spaces to support a rapidly expanding research enterprise. The interviewees also reflect on the evolution of the Core Technology Platform, emphasizing its collaborative approach to supporting faculty and students, promoting equitable access to research resources, and fostering interdisciplinary scientific discovery. Throughout the discussion, they illustrate how technical expertise, innovation, and teamwork contributed to building NYUAD's research environment during its formative years.

Video-recorded session with Diana Chester, a former academic technician and instructor at early NYUAD, recorded on 2024-05-07 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Associate Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to celebrating the memories, experiences, traditions, stories and community history of NYU Abu Dhabi. Interviews will be preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives.

In this oral history interview, Diana Chester reflects on her experiences helping build New York University Abu Dhabi from its earliest planning stages, beginning with her work in New York supporting the Abu Dhabi project before the University established its first campus. She describes her evolving career as NYUAD grew, transitioning from academic technology to teaching interactive media while contributing to the development of media laboratories, the Arts Center, and other academic initiatives. Chester recalls the University's formative years at the NYUAD Institute and the Downtown Campus, the move to the Saadiyat campus, and the collaborative culture that characterized the institution's rapid growth. She also reflects on building a personal and professional life in Abu Dhabi, describing how the city, its communities, and her experiences in the UAE influenced both her teaching and research. Throughout the interview, Chester illustrates the adaptability, creativity, and optimism that shaped NYUAD's transformation from an ambitious project into a thriving university.

Video-recorded session with Saba Brelvi, a member of NYUAD Community, recorded on 2024-05-23 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Associate Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to celebrating the memories, experiences, traditions, stories and community history of NYU Abu Dhabi. Interviews will be preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives.

In this oral history interview, Saba Brelvi reflects on her experiences as the spouse of a New York University Abu Dhabi faculty member and as an active member of the University's residential community. She discusses witnessing NYUAD's growth from its early years at the Downtown Campus through the move to the Saadiyat campus, describing how the close-knit community evolved as the institution expanded. Brelvi recounts her longstanding advocacy for the rights and well-being of domestic workers in the United Arab Emirates, including conducting research, developing educational resources, organizing information sessions, and collaborating with University offices to support faculty and staff in making informed and ethical employment decisions. She also reflects on the importance of recognizing domestic workers as members of the broader campus community and describes her efforts to embed these initiatives within University programs so they would continue beyond her own involvement. The interview offers a distinctive perspective on community life, social responsibility, and institutional development at NYUAD.

Video-recorded session, with Sada Odeh, Computer Science Professor of NYU and Chair of NYUAD International Hackathon for Social Good recorded on 2024-06-11and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Associate Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to celebrating the memories, experiences, traditions, stories and community history of NYU Abu Dhabi. Interviews will be preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives. Note: the interview was conducated via Zoom, while Dr. Odeh was at a local restaurant.

In this oral history interview, Dr. Sana Odeh reflects on her academic career and leadership at New York University Abu Dhabi, with particular emphasis on founding and developing the NYUAD International Hackathon for Social Good. She discusses the origins of the hackathon, its evolution into a globally recognized interdisciplinary program, and its impact on students, mentors, and collaborators. Odeh describes her commitment to expanding opportunities for students from the Arab world and other underrepresented regions through mentorship, international collaboration, and experiential learning. She recounts how hackathon participants developed projects that evolved into graduate research, entrepreneurial ventures, and academic careers, illustrating the program's long-term impact on students and mentors. Throughout the interview, she reflects on the importance of diversity, cross-cultural collaboration, and challenging stereotypes by bringing together participants from different disciplines, nationalities, and backgrounds. The interview also explores her educational philosophy and her vision for technology as a means of advancing social good and global cooperation.

Video-recorded session with Dr. Joseph Yosi Gelfand, Associate Professor of Physics at NYU Abu Dhabi, recorded on 2024-06-24 and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Associate Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to celebrating the memories, experiences, traditions, stories and community history of NYU Abu Dhabi. Interviews will be preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives.

In this oral history interview, Joseph "Yosi" Gelfand reflects on his career as a professor of physics and observational astronomer and his experiences as a founding faculty member at New York University Abu Dhabi. He discusses the University's early years, describing the academic freedom afforded to faculty as they developed new curricula, including the Foundations of Science program, and helped shape NYUAD's academic culture. Gelfand recalls the challenges of teaching and conducting research across multiple locations before the opening of the Saadiyat campus, reflecting on daily travel between the Downtown Campus, Sama Tower, and the Center for Science and Engineering in Musaffah. He also discusses his research at the Center for Astrophysics and Space Science and the growth of scientific research at NYUAD. Throughout the interview, Gelfand emphasizes the importance of mentoring students and fostering intellectual curiosity, describing student development as one of the most rewarding aspects of his career.

Video-recorded session, with Danny Abbas, Director of IT Services and Operation in the IT Department of NYUAD, recorded on September 20, 2024, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Librarian for Archives and Special Collections of NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to celebrating the memories, experiences, traditions, stories and community history of NYU Abu Dhabi. Interviews will be preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives.

In this oral history interview, Danny Abbas reflects on his eleven-year career at New York University Abu Dhabi, tracing his experiences from the University's early years across multiple campus locations to the development of the Saadiyat campus. He discusses his evolving roles in building and expanding information technology services, emphasizing IT's contribution to the University's mission by supporting teaching, research, and campus operations. Abbas describes the collaborative culture that characterized NYUAD's formative years, highlighting the shared sense of purpose among staff, contractors, and vendors as they helped build a new institution. He also reflects on the challenges of rapid campus growth, vendor transitions, and maintaining continuity during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in a dynamic academic environment. Looking back on his time at NYUAD, Abbas characterizes the University as a close-knit community where collaboration, innovation, and service shaped both his professional development and his lasting connection to the institution.

Video-recorded session, with Ertu Sarisozen, NYUAD Class of 2020 Alumnus, and current Global Outreach Specialist at NYUAD, recorded on November 22, 2024, and facilitated by Lauren Kata, Assistant Librarian for Archives and Special Collections of NYUAD Library. Conducted as part of The Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to celebrating the memories, experiences, traditions, stories and community history of NYU Abu Dhabi. Interviews will be preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives.

In this oral history interview, Nevzat Ertunga "Ertu" Sarisozen reflects on his experiences as a student at New York University Abu Dhabi, describing his journey from initially hesitating to attend the University to becoming an engaged member of its academic and campus community. He recounts how Candidate Weekend shaped his decision to enroll, shares his first impressions of Abu Dhabi, and reflects on the independence and experiences that prepared him for studying abroad. Sarisozen discusses his academic interests, memorable courses, and the mentorship he received from faculty, as well as his involvement in student leadership and campus organizations. Throughout the interview, he emphasizes the importance of community, diversity, and lasting friendships in shaping his undergraduate experience. Looking back after graduation, Sarisozen reflects on how his appreciation for NYUAD has deepened over time and expresses gratitude for the personal relationships and formative experiences that continue to influence his life.

Video-recorded oral history interview with Adam Fejes, alumnus, New York University Abu Dhabi Class of 2015, recorded on November 22, 2024, facilitated by Lauren Kata, Associate Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections, as part of the NYUAD Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to documenting the memories, experiences, traditions, stories, and community history of New York University Abu Dhabi. Interviews are preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives. Brief interruptions to the recording occur at approximately 00:04:20–00:04:35 and 00:09:46–00:09:58 due to interviewer coughing.

In this oral history interview, Adam Fejes reflects on his experiences as a member of New York University Abu Dhabi's Class of 2015, describing his journey from applying to the University and attending Candidate Weekend to becoming an active member of the campus community. He recalls his first impressions of NYUAD, including Marhaba and the University's early years at Sama Tower and the Downtown Campus, before reflecting on the transition to the Saadiyat campus. Fejes discusses his academic experiences as a psychology major, highlighting courses, faculty mentorship, and intellectual experiences that continued to influence his personal and professional life after graduation. He also reflects on his involvement in student organizations and extracurricular activities, emphasizing the importance of community, friendships, and campus life in shaping his undergraduate experience. Throughout the interview, Fejes describes NYUAD as a transformative environment that fostered personal growth, lasting relationships, and a strong sense of belonging.

Video-recorded oral history interview with Otari Kakhidze, alumnus, New York University Abu Dhabi Class of 2015, recorded on November 23, 2024, facilitated by Lauren Kata, Associate Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections, as part of the NYUAD Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to documenting the memories, experiences, traditions, stories, and community history of New York University Abu Dhabi. Interviews are preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives. A brief interruption occurs at approximately 00:03:22–00:03:39 as the interviewee explains that his voice is hoarse after attending the previous day's Defending the Nest basketball event.

In this oral history interview, Otari Kakhidze reflects on his journey from Tbilisi, Georgia, to New York University Abu Dhabi, describing how his early interest in Arabic studies and the opportunity for a globally integrated education influenced his decision to enroll. He recalls Candidate Weekend in 2011 as a defining experience, sharing his first impressions of Abu Dhabi and the strong sense of community that shaped his choice to attend NYUAD. Kakhidze discusses his involvement in the University's inaugural Student Government, reflecting on the collaborative process of establishing student organizations, traditions, and leadership structures during NYUAD's formative years. He also recounts his participation in athletics, including rugby, dragon boating, triathlon, and equestrian sports, and reflects on student life across the University's evolving campuses, from Sama Tower and the Downtown Campus to Saadiyat Island. Throughout the interview, Kakhidze emphasizes the lasting friendships, leadership opportunities, and sense of community that defined his undergraduate experience.

Video-recorded oral history interview with Janice Liu, Karol Tolpa, Anand Das, Farzan Khan, and Brídín Cotton, members of the 2024–2025 New York University Abu Dhabi Staff Council, recorded on April 22, 2025, facilitated by Lauren Kata, Associate Academic Librarian for Archives and Special Collections, as part of the NYUAD Memory Project. The Memory Project is the NYUAD Library's contribution to documenting the memories, experiences, traditions, stories, and community history of New York University Abu Dhabi. Interviews are preserved as part of the NYUAD University Archives.

In this oral history interview, members of the 2024–2025 New York University Abu Dhabi Staff Council reflect on the Council's role in representing staff perspectives and fostering shared governance across the University. The interview explores how Staff Council provides a forum for collaboration among administrative, academic, and research staff while contributing to institutional decision-making through policy discussions, committee work, and regular engagement with University leadership. The participants discuss initiatives that support staff well-being, professional development, and community building, including networking events, educational programs, and opportunities for cross-divisional collaboration. They also reflect on the evolution of Staff Council, describing its role in advocating for staff interests, strengthening communication across the institution, and creating an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives inform University policies and practices. Throughout the interview, they emphasize collaboration, service, and shared responsibility as central to NYUAD's institutional culture.

Includes a Part 1 and a Part 2 -- Part 1 mostly includes Pance describing his background and the Center; Part 2 inludes further interview questions.