Abu Dhabi, UAE – 22nd , March 2016: Students at the Petroleum Institute (PI) were inspired by guest speaker Claudia A. Page, Economic Associate at the U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi, and her colleagues, Cultural Affairs Officer, Mohini Madgavkar and Information Resource Officer, Elizabeth Stromme.

Dr. Murray Ross Gray, Senior Vice President Academic & Provost, and Dr. Ahmed Shoaibi, Dean of Academic Affairs, met with the visiting dignitaries and discussed further collaboration between the U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi and the Petroleum Institute.

Presenting to over 165 students and faculty at the ADMA Auditorium, Mrs. Page spoke about creating a culture of innovation, describing how female and African-American innovators and achievers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) had overcome preconceptions to become leaders in their fields.

Mrs. Page is acutely aware of the importance of innovation, as she is responsible for monitoring economic trends and coordinating with government agencies on a wide range of topics, including technology, science, trade, energy and environmental issues. As part of her presentation, she demonstrated the versatility of a 3D printer, a rapidly developing technology that is impacting a wide variety of fields. 

The interactive presentation was well received by students and faculty alike, many of whom actively participated in the session by discussing ways of promoting STEM disciplines in the wider community. Participants also touched on effective ways to address gender issues in the workplace.

Dr. Al Shoaibi, Dean of Academic Affairs said: “Here at the Petroleum Institute, we are continuously looking to collaborate with foreign embassies, as they are essential to the success of our global activities,  providing educational opportunities and global awareness to our student population.”

“The global awareness and international collaboration that results from extracurricular activities, such as hosting guest speakers, creates better adjusted individuals and more rounded engineers. Speakers such as Mrs. Page inspire students to become enthusiastic and motivated learners,” added Dr. Al Shoaibi.

After the event, Dr. Ebrahim Al Hajri, Director of External Relations and Collaborations, discussed pathways to collaboration between the Embassy and the Ebtikar PI Senior Design Showcase and Competition, which is scheduled for April 2016.

The Petroleum Institute offers a wide range of extracurricular activities to its students. The university forges partnerships with outstanding academic, cultural, and diplomatic institutions across the globe to expand the student experience. Discussing global issues and engaging with the local and international community motivates and empowers students and faculty alike.