General Chris Donahue, American University in Kyiv Graduation Remarks
The first undergraduate commencement at American University Kyiv (AUK) marks a significant milestone for a university established just 3 weeks before Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The ceremony recognizes a graduating class that completed its education while living through war, a feat no one should have to endure. Their success reflects the role of higher education in preparing professionals, civic leaders, and innovators for Ukraine’s future.
American University Kyiv was founded through a partnership with Arizona State University (ASU), whose continued academic support has helped AUK develop its curriculum, strengthen institutional capacity, and maintain educational continuity throughout the conflict. Through faculty collaboration, shared academic resources, and institutional guidance, ASU has contributed to AUK’s mission of providing internationally recognized education to students in Ukraine.
Small Wars Journal sends a warm congratulations to the first graduating Undergraduate and Master’s class at the American University in Kyiv.
