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Trustees Confirm Dr. Michael Smith as
AUN President

Dr. Michael Smith is the second successive President of the American University of Nigeria. Appointed by the Board of Trustees on 30 October 2007 in Abuja, Dr. Smith has performed in an acting capacity since June 1.

In confirming the new President, AUN Board Chair Ahmed Joda said, "Trustees unanimously agreed to confer the Presidency on Dr. Smith because of his hard work and commitment to the University. We are impressed by the wisdom with which he has guided AUN since his ascension as Acting President."

Joda said further that, "members are confident that as substantive President, Dr. Smith will lift the University to the next level."

In his remarks, Board member Dr. Bob Pastor, Vice President for International Affairs at American University, said, "Dr. Smith's capacity to understand the needs of the university and to work with the range of AUN supporters and employees is exactly what the university needs at this crucial stage of its development."

AUN faculty and staff have also expressed their delight with Dr. Smith's confirmation. Mr. Lawrence Ganchok, Staff Assembly Chair, said, "The University is privileged to have a proactive gentleman to lead the institution at this auspicious moment of its life."

Founding Dean of the School of Information Technology and Communications Professor Muhammadou Kah joined in praising the new president. "Michael Smith is someone who has worked tirelessly for the University. He is respected as a team player by the faculty staff, and students. We look forward to working with him as president."

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