AUS shocked as dean dies suddenly

Death of American University of Sharjah founder Ibrahim Sadek shocks and saddens students and alumni alike.

One of the founding academics at the American University of Sharjah died suddenly on Saturday, leaving many of the university's staff and alumni shocked.

Dr Ibrahim Sadek was associate dean of the college of arts and sciences and had been with the university since 1997.

Dr Mark Rush, dean of the college, said: "Ibrahim was one of the original, pioneer faculty here. He was indeed loved across the campus. He was a wonderful, popular teacher, a prolific scholar, a great mentor to junior faculty, and a super colleague."

Hundreds of former and current students took to Twitter to pay their respects, one student saying "he was the kindest faculty member on campus". Another said: "Dr Ibrahim Sadek helped so many students at AUS selflessly since 1997. Very sad loss for everyone. Rest in peace professor."

Sadek, also a professor of maths and statistics, passed away suddenly at his residence on campus.

The university's official statement said: "Students and alumni alike will remember standing in long lines in front of his office every registration time to get his counsel and advice on class choices and registration issues and he always seemed to have solutions for everyone which he shared with a smile. May his soul rest in peace."

Prayers are to be held at Al Sahabah Mosque in the Halwan area of Sharjah today at noon, after Al Dhuhur prayers.