Abu dhabi: Abu Dhabi University (ADU) organised the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) Middle East Advancement Symposium on 10-11 February. The two-day event gathered regional and international leaders in advancement, development professionals, alumni relations experts, and marketing and corporate social responsibility practitioners to discuss emerging trends, strategies, and best practices in fundraising, communications, and alumni engagement, marking a milestone in higher education advancement in the Middle East.
According to Emirates News Agency, the symposium included participation from 17 universities and institutions across the region, alongside key speakers and facilitators. Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University, highlighted the event’s significance by stating that it equips teams and partners with the necessary knowledge, tools, and strategies to enhance engagement and alumni relations, further advancing the university’s strategic goals. He emphasized that this milestone positions ADU at the forefront of higher education advancement in the Middle East and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s role as a hub for innovation, education, and knowledge exchange.
Sue Cunningham, CASE President and CEO, expressed satisfaction with the symposium’s outcome, noting the commitment and engagement of the advancement professionals who attended. She affirmed CASE’s pride in supporting its regional members through programs that reflect local context while connecting to global best practices.
The symposium provided participants with a structured learning experience, including expert-led discussions, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities designed to enhance professional expertise and institutional impact. As a global nonprofit association, CASE supports educational institutions and advancement professionals in over 80 countries, offering frameworks, training, and resources in fundraising, alumni relations, communications, and institutional development.
By hosting the symposium in the Middle East, ADU facilitated a unique opportunity for regional participants to engage with CASE’s global expertise and connect with an international community of advancement professionals, underscoring the UAE’s commitment to delivering measurable impact for institutions, students, and broader communities.
