COVER CAPTIONS:
1. Sapar Ibraev, Chyngyz Zhanybekov, Kalys Zhumakadyr uulu & Amangeldi Dzhumabaev 2. AUCA Fellows 3. Aigerim Nurgalieva 4. Dilobar Tuychieva & Sakina Yasakieva 5. Gumyr Dauletbak & Khedzhera Suleyeva 6. Malika Pulotova
4 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014
GRADUATION BOOK 2014
Foundation Overview
3 | History 3 | mission 4 | Programs 5 | partner universities 5 | Program Administrator: American councils for international education
Celebrating the Accomplishments of our Student Fellows
8 | auca graduatE PROFILES 22 | kimep UNIVERSITY graduatE PROFILES
37 | Alumni Association
THE Foundation’s Faculty & Intern Fellowships
38 | Enterprise Faculty Fellowships 38 | Enterprise Intern Fellowships
39 | Regional Summer Internship Program 39 | INTERNATIONAL Internship Program ALI HAMRAYEV, TURKMEN FELLOW GRADUATING A YEAR EARLY WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 1 GRADUATION BOOK 2014
Graduation 2014 celebrates the fourth class of Student Fellows to receive a university education through the U.S.-Central Asia Education Foundation (“the Foundation”) Enterprise Fellowship Program. Thirteen Student Fellows will celebrate their graduation on May 24, 2013 from KIMEP University. Two of these Fellows, Bahtiyar Jalilov of Turkmenistan and Aigerim Nurgalieva of Kazakhstan, completed their degrees one semester early in December 2013 and another, Ali Hamrayev of Turkmenistan, followed an accelerated track and will be graduating one year early. Twelve Student Fellows will graduate on May 31, 2014 from the American University of Central Asia (“AUCA”) in Bishkek, Kyrgyz Republic.
U.S.-CAEF Student Fellows are academically gifted citizen residents of one of the Central Asia countries of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan or Uzbekistan who, without financial aid, would otherwise not be able to pursue a university education at one of the Foundation’s partner universities. They have been awarded full undergraduate scholarships for study in the fields of business and, in some cases, economics. Student Fellows must meet the rigorous admission standards of their university, and are selected by the Foundation’s Board at the end of a further selection process developed by the Foundation and American Councils for International Education (“American Councils”), which administers the Foundation’s fellowship programs. Each student selected for the program commits to meet the on-going requirements of the scholarship, including maintaining a 3.0 grade point average and participating in the educational, vocational and social events of the Student Fellowship Program.
Graduation 2014 is the result of years of hard work by each fellow and represents a major milestone in the lives of the graduating Student Fellows and their families. We recognize, and celebrate, the accomplishments of these future Central Asian leaders and members of the U.S.-CAEF family.
2 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 Foundation Overview
History
The Foundation, a congressionally approved “legacy foundation” to the former U.S. Government sponsored Central Asian-American Enterprise Fund (“Fund” or “CAAEF”), was funded by a $15.7 million grant from CAAEF and commenced operation in May, 2007. CAAEF was one of the “U.S. Enterprise Funds” authorized and funded by the U.S. Government after the dissolution of the former Soviet Union. It was incorporated in 1994 as a not-for-profit corporation to encourage the creation and expansion of small and medium-sized enterprises in the Central Asian Republics of the former Soviet Union (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan) and operated in Central Asia for 8 years until 2004. Like all Enterprise Funds, CAAEF was managed by a private board of directors and was required to liquidate its investments by a specified “sunset” date and either return the proceeds to the U.S. Treasury or develop a “legacy proposal” for an alternative use of these proceeds, consistent with the Fund’s mission.
During its operation CAAEF had provided extensive training and education to the Central Asian young men and women who comprised its staff and worked in its small and medium lending and investing programs. The CAAEF Board had been told by its staff that this “business education” had proved invaluable. In conducting research for its legacy proposal, the CAAEF Board found that there was a strong demand by private sector businesses in Central Asia for employees with a Western business education – while few opportunities existed for academically qualified, but financially needy students to obtain an undergraduate business degree in Central Asia. The CAAEF Board determined that (i) a financial need- based merit undergraduate scholarship program (ii) in business at universities committed to adoption of a Western-style business curriculum (iii) open to citizen residents of the five countries in which it operated would be the cornerstone of its legacy proposal. To that it added two complementary programs, a faculty development program and an internship program. After more than three years of efforts by its Board, the Fund received the necessary U.S. governmental approvals in May 2007, created the Foundation and launched the Enterprise Student Fellowship program.
Mission The Foundation’s Mission is to encourage and assist the development and growth of a vibrant open-market private business sector in Central Asia by: supporting the quality of - and affordable access to - Western business know-how and practices at selected institutions of higher learning in the region that have adopted Western curricula and teaching methods; providing opportunities for educational, vocational, and cultural experience in countries that serve as positive examples of an open market economy operating within a democratic environment; and, promoting other activities that will generate a favorable environment in Central Asia for private business to succeed and entrepreneurial spirit to thrive.
notes
During its active operating years, CAAEF The Fund’s direct investments, SME and micro-loan programs, & technical assistance activities were directly responsible for: entered into 27 joint ventures with equity (or Creating a diverse array of pri- Developing the western busi- Achieving a positive demon- equity plus debt) financing totaling $61.5 vate business enterprises that ness practice skills of its local stration effect, by providing the continue to operate successfully staff, joint venture partners and close support and experience million, granted 352 loans to establish or and provide several thousand managers, small business loan that now finds several of the expand small and medium-size enterprises private sector employment customers, and employees of Fund’s SME loan program Part- (“SMEs”), and funded more than 3,000 opportunities; the local partner banks that ner Banks offering small busi- participated in The Fund’s SME ness term-loans directly to their micro-credit loans totaling $10.4 million. loan program; and, customers, and other banks adopting similar lending activi- ties that mirror the policies and procedures of CAAEF’s highly successful small business loan program.
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 3 Foundation Overview
TABLE 2: STUDENT FELLOWS BY CITIZENSHIP
kazakhstan tajikistan uzbekistan kyrgyzstan turkmenistan
Programs
THE FOUNDATION EXECUTES ITS MISSION THROUGH THREE PROGRAMS:
Enterprise ENTERPRISE Enterprise Student FACULTY Intern Fellowships FELLOWSHIPS Fellowships
A financial need-based undergraduate A program for business faculty at selected A program for select Enterprise Student business education scholarship program universities in Central Asia designed to Fellows to gain practical work experience for academically gifted students who, due further develop teaching skills, knowledge, within Central Asia after their second year, to financial hardship, would otherwise not and course curriculum, thereby benefiting as well as a post-graduate educational, be able to pursue a university education. the current and future students who will vocational and cultural experience in the Scholarships are provided at selected be the region’s business leaders. United States or other countries that serve Central Asian universities to citizen as positive examples of democratic open- residents of the Central Asia countries of market economies. Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, Tajiki- stan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan.
For the recent 2013-2014 academic year, the Foundation awarded a total of 121 scholarships for 57 Student Fellows to attend AUCA and 64 to attend KIMEP University.
While the Foundation is committed to achieving geographic and regional diver- sity, efforts have been challenged at different times by the inability to conduct active outreach in Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. Despite these challenges, it is notable that among the Student Fellows are citizens from Turkmenistan and Uzbe- kistan as well as from Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, and Tajikistan. It is the intent of the Foundation to actively and continuously recruit in all these countries. TABLE 1: STUDENT FELLOWS BY INSTITUTION
4 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 Foundation Overview
Our partner universities, AUCA and KIMEP University, were selected based on a number of criteria including their use of English, the international language of business, as the primary language for instruction, adoption of a Western-style curriculum and teaching methodology and a willingness to support the goals of the Foundation and its Student Fellows.
The Foundation is most grateful for AUCA’s and KIMEP University’s dedication to providing their students with the technical skills, knowledge, and habits of critical thinking required for the business world where our students will spend their professional lives and their continued commitment to KIMEP UNIVERSITY the highest quality education.
In July 2013, KIMEP University extended its support to our Enterprise Student Fellowship Program and entered into a cost-sharing agreement with the Foundation to provide non- Kazakhstani Enterprise Student Fellows a full tuition waiver effective retroactively to students commencing their study at KIMEP University in 2012. The number of scholarships, as well as the mix of nationalities of students, will vary from year to year depending upon factors such as restrictions on visas and travel or recruitment that may be imposed by the respective Central Asian governments. We are most gratified by KIMEP University’s recognition of the value of the U.S.-CAEF program, and grateful for the opportunity it presents to our Enterprise Student Fellows. AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL ASIA (AUCA)
Program administrator: American Councils for International Education
American Councils for International Education: ACTR/ACCELS is a premier, international nonprofit creating educational opportunities that prepare individuals and institutions to succeed in this interconnected world. Founded in 1974 as an association for area and language studies, American Councils, with a team of over 450 dedicated professionals in more than 60 countries, designs, implements, and administers academic exchanges, overseas language immersion, and educational development programs that broaden individual perspectives, increase knowledge, and deepen understanding. Building on over three decades of regional expertise in Central Asia and other republics of the former Soviet Union, American Councils advances education and research worldwide through substantive cross-cultural programs that provide a global perspective essential for academic and professional excellence. American Councils was retained to facilitate the design of and to administer the Foundation’s programs.
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 5 Graduation 2014: Celebrating the Accomplishments of our Student Fellows
Throughout their four years of study, this year’s graduating Student Fellows have shown themselves to be true leaders and role models at their respective universities and we are proud that they are part of the U.S.-CAEF family. They have continued the traditions started by elder “brother and sister” Enterprise Student Fellows. They are a credit to their parents, their families, their professors, their universities and their U.S.-CAEF family. They have mentored incoming Fellows, helped create and strengthen the U.S.-CAEF Association, taken campus-wide roles in student government and university clubs, managed entrepreneurial businesses, won opportunities to study overseas, and volunteered their time and skills, including their language skills, to their communities. Most of our Student Fellows are fluent in at least three languages: the language of their home Central Asian country, English and Russian. Many have gained proficiency in additional languages.
The academic performance of the graduating class has been exemplary. Of twenty five seniors, 16 have been recognized on the President’s or Dean’s Lists(Table 1):
auca At AUCA, fourth-year students with a cumulative GPA of 3.8 or higher are placed on the “President’s List.” Students in their second, Aizharkyn Burkanova third, or fourth years of study with a GPA of 3.67 or higher are placed Ignatii Kim on the “Vice-President’s List.” Karina Kussainova Nazokat Omuralieva At KIMEP University, full time students with a semester GPA of 4.0 Yelena Vorobey or higher are placed on the “President’s List”, while those with Kalys Zhumakadyr uulu a semester GPA of 3.75 to 3.9 are placed on the “Dean’s List.” KIMEP UNIVERSITY Nine of these Student Fellows are on track to graduate with honors: Gufronjon Ayubjonov Ali Hamrayev Bakhtiyar Jalilov AUCA KIMEP University Aigerim Nurgalieva Aizharkyn Burkanova Gufronjon Ayubjonov Malika Pulotova Karina Kussainova Ali Hamrayev Yerzhan Smagulov Nazokat Omuralieva Malika Pulotova Khedzhera Suleyeva Yelena Vorobey Sakina Yasakieva Dilobar Tuychieva Kalys Zhumakadyr uulu Sakina Yasakieva Dastan Zhumagulov
Table 1
Our seniors have taken advantage of highly competitive study abroad programs in Bulgaria, Germany, Lithuania, Norway, Slovakia, South Korea, Spain, and Turkey. In the pages that follow, we offer profiles of these outstanding young men and women. We thought it best to allow the Student Fellows to share their own stories. The following first-person narratives have been prepared by the graduating Student Fellows themselves.
6 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 GUFRONJON AYUBJONOV, PRESIDENT OF THE U.S.-CAEF STUDENT ASSOCIATION
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 7 8 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 AUCA SENIORS
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 9 RUSTAM BAKIBAYEV
HOMETOWN TARAZ, KAZAKHSTAN
MAJOR ECONOMICS
I enjoy the country’s current environment, and I feel that I can bring a significant positive change to society.... Even as a student I try to give to my community as much as I can.
Since I first came to Kyrgyzstan, I knew I try to combine academic and practi- at helping the disabled, orphans, and that it was a country where I could cal knowledge. So far, I have worked or people in need. As a volunteer coor- discover my full potential. I enjoy the interned at Delta Bank, Central Asian dinator in the IREX Muskie Alumnus country’s current environment, and I Free Market Institution, LLP, Intersystem Small Grant Program, I conducted a feel that I can bring a significant posi- and NetCity Internet Cafe. The variety series of educational training sessions tive change to society. This became the of positions and institutions is quite di- for adults. I am a member of the Stu- goal of my life and was the main reason verse because I try to use every oppor- dent Intellectual Life Committee at why I chose to study at AUCA. Now tunity to learn and explore new areas. AUCA, which promotes student in- I can say that I have already taken the These experiences not only helped me tellectual and research development. first important steps towards my goal. develop my analytical, critical thinking, Through these activities, I learned the and research skills, but also expanded value of team work and considerably I used the scholarship opportunity to my knowledge of local businesses and improved my social skills, which I will study economics at AUCA. The U.S.- the advantages and disadvantages of definitely need for successful integra- CAEF scholarship gave me an excel- being an entrepreneur. tion in society. lent opportunity to develop personally and professionally, and it opened nu- Even as a student I try to give to my lo- merous opportunities for future career cal community as much as I can. Cur- development. Throughout my studies, rently, I coordinate the Bishkek chapter I have managed to maintain an above at Student Ambassadors for Peace. In average GPA and gain a solid aca- this international organization we cre- demic background. ate community service projects aimed
10 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 AIZHARKYN BURKANOVA
HOMETOWN BISHKEK, KYRGYZ REPUBLIC
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTARTION
AWARDS PRESIDENT’S LIST- SPRING 2013 DEAN’S LIST-FALL 2011, SPRING 2012
Some of my U.S.-CAEF fellows are my closest friends, some are my reliable colleagues, and all of them are my strongest competitors, who positively impact my growth because all of them are so unique and so talented.
The moment I became a U.S.-CAEF ipation in these activities taught me in an international summer program Fellow was a tipping point in my that I can change things around me for at KIMEP University in Almaty, Kazakh- life. Since then, my life has been the better. stan, where I studied advertising strate- like a dynamic stream filled with ex- gies in Central Asia. These experiences My volunteer experience encourages citing events and great people who deepened and solidified my interest in me to explore professional opportu- changed my attitude toward life. marketing and consumer behavior, and nities and identify my career path. I in- Soon I will graduate, so it is time to led me to another job opportunity with terned at the Bishkek Business Club and summarize all the brightest moments Creative Marketing Group, where I have later was able to secure a part-time job of my student life. This is a story of been researching consumer insights for as a research assistant in the Tian-Shian a person who was lucky to be part a year, dealing with copyright issues, Research Center. Thanks to these job of the U.S.-CAEF family. These four and providing consulting services. experiences, my studies, and the help years gave me everything that I have of the AUCA Career Service Center, I I am thankful to the U.S.-CAEF family been dreaming about. expanded my professional knowledge for supporting me in all my endeavors, My first two years at AUCA were years and improved my business communica- shaping my core values, and helping of socializing and volunteering that tion skills. To challenge my newly gained me to be successful. Some of my U.S.- helped me overcome my shyness and skills further, I decided to take part in a CAEF Fellows are my closest friends, gain confidence. All the people I met competitive exchange program at the some are my reliable colleagues, and at AUCA encouraged me to be active, Norwegian University of Life Sciences in all of them are my strongest competi- so I volunteered at the Red Cross; the Ås, Norway. Further, I won one of five tors, who positively impact my growth Unity Fund, a charity club; and SIFE full scholarships among the students of because all of them are so unique and (Students in Free Enterprise). Partic- Central Asian countries to participate so talented.
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 11 MADINA DAMIR KYZY
HOMETOWN BISHKEK, KYRGYZ REPUBLIC
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
U.S.-CAEF has not only provided us with high-quality education, but has had a huge positive impact on our perception of the world and self-development, pushing us to think more globally.
“Start where you are. Use what you consulting company, as a project assis- to entrepreneurs too poor to qualify have. Do what you can.” This quote tant for a water utilities improvement for traditional bank loans. As a leader by Arthur Ashe, a famous American project that was initiated by the World I also would like to implement posi- tennis player, perfectly fits this stage Bank and EBRD to improve the water tive changes in the Kyrgyz Republic as of my life. I try to get the most out of service quality in rural areas of the Kyr- well as in the Central Asian region and my life. I learned to be persistent from gyz Republic. In addition, I actively par- beyond. I am very optimistic and have my Mom, who is a constant inspiration ticipate in charitable activities for can- positive views about my future. for me. All of the exciting and valuable cer patients and orphans through the Finally, I would like to thank U.S.-CAEF experiences I have had, including my student-run Unity Fund and the FLEX for giving this enormous opportunity to participation in the U.S.-CAEF pro- Alumni Association; I also volunteer at us, students, to learn and develop our- gram, became possible thanks to my the career service center at AUCA. selves. U.S.-CAEF has not only provid- Mom’s support. My profile won’t be complete if I do not ed us with high-quality education, but Currently I am a senior majoring in mention my other passions. One of my has had a huge positive impact on our Business Administration and minoring biggest dreams I would like to achieve is perception of the world and self-de- in Psychology. I believe that in addition to open my own bank, which will oper- velopment, pushing us to think more to good academic knowledge, gaining ate with consideration not only of com- globally. I know well that U.S.-CAEF work experience is very important. I mercial but also people’s interests like has not only affected our lives and our can proudly say that I volunteered as a the one founded by Muhammad Yunus, families but affected the perceptions student assistant during the early stag- the Bangladeshi entrepreneur and civ- of our current friends and employers. I es of the construction of the new AUCA il society leader who was awarded the am grateful to the U.S.-CAEF Board for campus. Currently, I am working at the Nobel Peace Prize. The Grameen Bank believing in me, and I will try my best local branch of KS Solutions, a Slovak established by Mr. Yunus gives loans to justify this trust.
• MADINA HAS BEEN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE U.S.-CAEF POST-GRADUATE INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN FALL 2014
12 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 AMANGELDI DZHUMABAEV
HOMETOWN JALAL-ABAD, KYRGYZ REPUBLIC
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTARTION
MINOR ANTHROPOLOGY
Although I am graduating soon, learning doesn’t stop for me here. I believe that it is a lifelong experience. I admire all my Fellows for their thirst for knowledge and drive in life. I wish success to all...
I grew up in Jalal-Abad, a small town my business courses. Participation in applying it in the real world. Especial- in southwestern Kyrgyzstan. In 2008, I the Anthropology Club where I met ly, I realized this when I interned at the participated in the Future Leaders Ex- with leading academicians, research- National Institute for Strategic Stud- change Program and spent an academ- ers, and artists has complemented ies during my senior year. I have also ic year in Douglas High School in Rapid my business studies. This knowledge realized how important it is to have an City, South Dakota. This experience came in handy when I traveled to international experience, and in 2013 was very important for me because it Batken, Osh, and Jalal-Abad to assist I spent a summer semester at Univer- taught me discipline and honesty. in the production of documentaries sity of Tubingen in Germany. Partici- about the human rights situation in pation in a study abroad program is In 2010, I received an award from U.S.- these politically and economically un- the best way to learn about your own CAEF to study at AUCA. AUCA hosts stable regions of Kyrgyzstan. I was very country. Many things are hidden from the most diverse student community impressed by the motivation showed us while we are inside the country, but in the country. As soon as you cross by local youth to develop our regions. once you are out, you find out how the threshold, you become a citizen Inspired by this trip, I started working much more needs to be improved. of greater Central Asia. Four years on my own videos. My recent docu- at AUCA have given me a lot for my Although I am graduating soon, learn- mentary is about the plight of people academic and professional growth. I ing doesn’t stop for me here. I believe selling junk at Orto-Sai flea market. learned to study and work hard, to set that it is a lifelong experience. I admire priorities, and to value friendships. At first, some courses at AUCA might all my Fellows for their thirst for knowl- seem redundant but over time you edge and drive in life. I wish success to At AUCA, I am majoring in Business understand that it is important to all-- especially my friends from my soc- Administration and minoring in An- consolidate your knowledge before cer team, winners of the AUCA Cup. thropology, a good counterpoint to
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 13 SAPAR IBRAEV
HOMETOWN BISHKEK, KYRGYZ REPUBLIC
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
I hope that all of us will realize all the potential we have and contribute to the development of the Central Asian region
I was born in Bishkek, but until the age field of marketing: Strategic Market- nesses face, what it means actually to of seven, I grew up in Kara-Koo village ing, International Marketing, Corpo- work there. I had a great time there. and the city of Balykchy in the Issyk-Kul rate Communications, and Internation- As a subsidiary of such a big company, region. Then I moved to Bishkek and al Business. During my classes, I was they implemented international stan- went to school #13, one of the best involved in practical tasks that will be dards of working and corporate social schools of the country, known for its very helpful in real life-- I developed a responsibility values. I hope that the good English program. marketing plan for a company, wrote a local companies will improve their ac- business plan for a non-profit organiza- tivities according to these global best I decided that I would study at AUCA tion, wrote a strategic plan for a global practices, and I am sure that U.S.-CAEF long before graduating from school. company, and developed another stra- Fellows will contribute to this process. When the time to enter the univer- tegic plan for the internationalization sity came, I had big problems with I highly appreciate the support pro- of a local business. financing my education, but fortu- vided by the program and its coor- nately I learned about the U.S.-CAEF Another important event that helped dinators. These years were full of not Fellowship Program, which provides me decide about my career was the only learning things, but also a lot of full scholarships for Business Adminis- regional internship provided by the fun during the gatherings and team tration students, and I applied. The day U.S.-CAEF program. I interned at the building events. I made many friends when I was notified that I was awarded Public Affairs Department at LLC Ta- with different backgrounds, interests, a scholarship was one of the happiest las Copper Gold, a subsidiary of Gold goals and views. I hope that all of us moments in my life. Fields Ltd, the world’s 4th biggest will realize all the potential we have gold mining company. It was an amaz- and contribute to the development of At AUCA, I realized that I love market- ing experience. I observed how a real the Central Asian region. ing. So I took all available courses that company works, what challenges busi- could help me build a career in the
14 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 IGNATII KIM
HOMETOWN OSH, KYRGYZ REPUBLIC
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTARTION
AWARDS DEAN’S LIST- FALL 2011
At AUCA, I decided to focus on banking, financial investment, and marketing and tried to enrich my knowledge through educational exchange programs and internships.
I was born in Osh, the second larg- fall 2012 semester in Koc University, Club, which I co-founded together est city in Kyrgyzstan, often referred Istanbul, Turkey. In 2013, I took part in with my peers as a response to the to as the “southern capital”. While in the Global Collaborative Summer Pro- tragic events in Osh in 2010. The club high school, I was selected to partici- gram at Kyung Hee University in Seoul, was involved in fund raising activities pate in the Future Leaders Exchange South Korea, where I studied social to help the victims of this inter-ethnic Program and spent my senior year economics and international business clash. The activities of the club have in Newport, Oregon. The program with select students from over 20 dif- expanded to other regions of the inspired me to contribute to the de- ferent countries. Upon my return to country, and students now also reach velopment of my home country. To Bishkek, I interned at the Ministry of out to orphans and children from achieve this goal, I needed a good Culture, Information and Tourism and low-income families. The Unity Fund education, which became possible received an award from the U.S. Am- was successful in receiving several thanks to the scholarship award from bassador, Pamela L. Spratlen. grants for implementation of its com- U.S.-CAEF to study at AUCA. I would munity projects and was named Best I also believe that volunteering and like to thank the U.S.-CAEF Board for Club 2010 by AUCA and Best Project community work have contributed a this great opportunity. 2010 by the FLEX Alumni Association. lot to my development, and I am ac- In addition to volunteering, I also At AUCA, I decided to focus on bank- tively involved in various extracurric- have other interests. I like reading ing, financial investment, and - mar ular events and projects. One of the and sports (running and swimming), keting and tried to enrich my knowl- achievements I am especially proud and I play guitar. edge through educational exchange of is the creation of the Unity Fund programs and internships. I spent my
• IGNATII HAS BEEN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE U.S.-CAEF POST-GRADUATE INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN FALL 2014
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 15 KARINA KUSSAINOVA
HOMETOWN ATYRAU, KAZAKHSTAN
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
MINOR PSYCHOLOGY
AWARDS PRESIDENT’S LIST- SPRING 2013 DEAN’S LIST- FALL 2011, SPRING 2012
I know that when I have sufficient financial means, I will help my community. I remember how my mother helped people, and I want to be like her.
I was raised by a single mother in the performance and productivity. I am career growth, I feel that it is not what small town of Atyrau in western Ka- certain that with this education and I am interested in. I see myself as an zakhstan. She always inspired me to my previous work experience, I won’t HR manager. I love working with peo- live to the full potential, taught me to have difficulty in finding employment. ple. That is why my senior thesis is be strong and to be thirsty for knowl- I have been working since the age of about motivation for achievement in edge. However, when I turned 19, she 16. I tried out different jobs—wrote different organizational cultures. But passed away…. Now, with everything articles, drafted ads and did photo my career aspirations are not limited I do, I do it to prove that I follow her shoots for the Caspian Region and to this. I have some ideas for devel- advice. Every time I achieve some- Promo Shift magazines, and worked oping my own business in the future. thing, I imagine how proud she would as a front desk agent at Marriott Ex- I know that when I have sufficient have been of me, especially now, ecutive Apartments. I think it is wise financial means, I will help my com- when I am graduating from AUCA. to start working early, because each munity. I remember how my mother time better opportunities open to I am so glad that one day I typed in helped people, and I want to be like you. Thanks to my previous jobs, after Google “scholarships for Kazakh stu- her. I’m always trying to help people my sophomore year, I was hired as an dents” because it changed my life. in need-- I gave free English classes assistant to the operations director of Without the U.S.-CAEF’s support I in Kazakhstan, and in Bishkek I dedi- the ISKER Group during my summer wouldn’t be where I am now. cated a lot of time to serve homeless break. This Kazakh based conglomer- people. Now I spend most of my free I am a senior majoring in Business Ad- ate provides a wide range of services time with children from orphanages ministration and minoring in Psychol- to its clients in the oil and gas sector. and poor families. Helping orphans ogy. I believe that these two areas Recently the company offered me a to create brighter futures is one of the complement each other-- business permanent position. Although this is most important goals in my life. psychology helps improve business a high paying job that promises good
16 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 NAZOKAT OMURALIEVA
HOMETOWN OSH, KYRGYZ REPUBLIC
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
AWARDS PRESIDENT’S LIST- SPRING 2013 DEAN’S LIST- FALL 2011, SPRING 2012
I am one of the few girls from my community to have a chance to study at AUCA.... In future, I want to give back by being a role model for other girls.... I would like to open... a consulting company which will help small and medium-sized businesses to grow and avoid bankruptcy.
I am one of the few girls from my com- of investment protection, and arbitra- In future, I want to give back by be- munity to have a chance to study at tion cases in my business legislation ing a role model for other girls from AUCA. I had a dream of studying at class. I was able to come up with con- my community. I would like to open AUCA, as it was and is the most pres- structive ideas on improving current my own business, specifically a con- tigious university in Kyrgyzstan, but I investment policies and creating a sulting company which will help small knew that my family could not afford safe environment and contracts bene- and medium-sized businesses to grow the western education offered there. ficial both for investors and my coun- and avoid bankruptcy. For that, I think When I found out about the U.S.-CAEF try. My second internship, at the Demir I need to get experience in different Fellowship, I realized that my dream Kyrgyz International Bank, helped me areas of business and work in different could come true. The happiest day of better understand credit policies and companies. I am applying for an in- my life was when I became a finalist of lending. Although I haven’t graduated ternship at the Ministry of Finance in the U.S.-CAEF Fellowship Program. yet, I have received a job offer from order to better understand the finan- this bank. cial system of the Kyrgyz Republic and The business administration program have a chance to participate in discus- at AUCA provided me with a good In addition, my participation in an sions of important issues that the Min- theoretical foundation in key business exchange semester in Bulgaria, pro- istry is currently working on. concepts that I was able to expand fessional and team-building events through two internships. During the organized by U.S.-CAEF, various proj- I know I have ambitious plans for the first internship sponsored by the U.S.- ects of the international student orga- future, but I know that I am special and CAEF program, I worked at Talas Cop- nization, AIESEC, and Better Society a future business leader of Kyrgyzstan per Gold Company and learned about Club, AUCA’s Diversity Week, and because I am a U.S.-CAEF Fellow. problems investors face in Kyrgyzstan. many other student activities have This knowledge became useful when I contributed positively to my social studied investment treaties, standards and professional life.
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 17 ALIIA SULTANOVA
HOMETOWN KARAKOL, KYRGYZ REPUBLIC
MAJOR ECONOMICS
I am extremely grateful to U.S.-CAEF for who I am now.... With everything I have gained at AUCA, I feel confident about my future, and I am sure I will have a successful career.
I was born in a small town called Kara- a news team member with our U.S.- the executive and general directors kol, the administrative center of Issyk CAEF Fellows and participated in a of prominent companies in Bishkek, Kul Province. Eventually, my family variety of events outside campus as creating special brochures and fliers moved to the capital city, Bishkek. My well. Now looking back, I can say that with company information, organiz- mom and grandma invested a lot of participation in the U.S.-CAEF Region- ing conferences, and other adminis- time and effort in my early education, al Internship Program is one of the trative tasks. This job required me to and in 2010, I graduated from the Kyr- brightest experiences I have had and be punctual. I learned to multitask and gyz-Turkish Girls High School, where I helped me confirm my career choice. meet deadlines. Certainly, this first in- had received a solid foundation for my ternship was a great experience and a In June, 2012, Kyrgyz Concept invit- further education. The same year, U.S.- chance to discover my potential and ed me to take part in their summer CAEF made it possible for me to study prepared me for other professional ex- internship program. With more than at the best university in the Kyrgyz Re- periences that followed. 150 employees and several hundred public. Now, I am a senior majoring in thousand dollars in revenue, Kyrgyz I am extremely grateful to U.S.-CAEF Economics at AUCA. Concept is one of Kyrgyzstan’s largest for who I am now. Being a senior, During my student time in the amazing tourist companies. This was my first in- I can say that four years at AUCA environment of AUCA, I learned a lot ternship experience, and although my changed me so much. I have a lot of from my professors and classmates. I supervisor was fantastic and helped ideas and big plans. With everything I made many friends through extracur- me a lot, the internship was quite have gained at AUCA, I feel confident ricular events organized by the AUCA challenging-- but also interesting and about my future, and I am sure I will administration and students, such as substantive. I had many important du- have a successful career. “Diversity Week” and “Charity Ball”. ties: posting creative advertisements I also had the pleasure of working as on social networks, drafting letters for
18 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 YELENA VOROBEY
HOMETOWN SHYMKENT, KAZAKHSTAN
MAJOR ECONOMICS
AWARDS PRESIDENT’S LIST- SPRING 2013 DEAN’S LIST- FALL 2011, SPRING 2012
I am proud that while studying at AUCA I was also able to contribute to the success of some student groups and international organizations taking important leadership roles and managing meaningful projects.
I was born and raised in Kazakhstan, Be Global Cooperation Over Envi- competitions, provided consulting at but I graduated from Foothill High ronmental Issues?” through the Bard the university’s Continuing Education School in Bakersfield, California, Center for Civic Engagement Network Center (CEC), won a prestigious award thanks to the Future Leaders Exchange (the Bard Network). My previous work, for volunteering at the Rome Model Program (FLEX). This experience in the published earlier, “A Tale about Hu- United Nations, implemented various United States taught me to be flexible, manity and Freedom,” won Bard Col- training and educational projects de- open-minded, and persistent. I knew lege’s 2013 essay contest. I am plan- signed to expand economic oppor- that I had to find a way to fund my fur- ning to continue my education in this tunities for the community through ther education after graduating high sphere before I feel confident enough Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE), school, because my family was not to start my own consulting business. and was in charge of important so- able to support me. And this is exact- cial projects-- “World Without Limits” I am proud that while studying at ly when the U.S.-CAEF program came aimed at helping disabled children in AUCA I was also able to contribute to into my life and helped me realize my Bishkek, and the Malovodnoe Project, the success of some student groups potential. which promotes child development and international organizations taking conditions in Malovodnoe village. I am a senior majoring in Economics important leadership roles and man- at AUCA. Over these years at the uni- aging meaningful projects. I orga- None of these achievements would versity, I have taken a strong interest in nized a number of community events have been possible without the sup- economic research which helped me as a FLEX Alumni event coordinator, port from U.S.-CAEF. I want to express develop an ability to integrate eco- led student units at the International my gratitude to this organization. In nomic concepts, research, and policy Association of Students in Economic return, I will do my best to make my issues. Currently, I am working on my and Commercial Sciences (AIESEC), contribution to the development of second research paper, “Can There coached debate teams for annual state my country, region, and the world.
• YELENA HAS BEEN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE U.S.-CAEF POST-GRADUATE INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN FALL 2014
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 19 CHYNGYZ ZHANYBEKOV
HOMETOWN JALAL-ABAD, KYRGYZ REPUBLIC
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTARTION
AWARDS DEAN’S LIST- FALL 2011
I am endlessly grateful to U.S.-CAEF for this opportunity to grow both as a determined business professional and a person who recognizes the importance of giving back to society.
I am a senior majoring in Business tor, in Jalal-Abad in 2010. Without that gained theoretical background in busi- Administration at AUCA. My interest presentation I would not have known ness and marketing that helped during in business began when I was in the about the U.S.-CAEF family-- now I call my internship at the Retail Marketing U.S. as a FLEX exchange student. it a “family” because honestly, this is Department of Demir Kyrgyz Interna- One of my classes in Golden West how I feel being a U.S.-CAEF Fellow. It tional Bank. High School in California was Virtual is hard to overestimate all the support In addition to the academic and profes- Enterprise, where students actually that I have received from the program. sional experiences in Bishkek, I received ran a business that aimed at conduct- While in AUCA, I had a very interest- a scholarship from the German Academ- ing events. My role in the enterprise ing journey full of challenges and suc- ic Exchange Service (DAAD) and had was to talk to people and try to find cesses. Attending interesting classes, a unique opportunity to be a summer new customers. That was the moment being involved in many extracurricu- exchange student in Munich, Germany. when I found my passion in marketing lar activities, clubs, and events, I real- and entrepreneurship. ized what it is to be a student. AUCA My student life-- one of the most im- taught me self-discipline, determina- portant parts of life-- would not have Coming back to Jalal-Abad, my home tion and-- what I consider the most im- been as awesome as it was without the city in the south of Kyrgyzstan, I was portant-- the ability to open my eyes U.S.-CAEF program. I am endlessly determined to further my education in and see the world full of opportunities. grateful to U.S.-CAEF for this oppor- the field of business administration at Thanks to this university, I was able to tunity to grow both as a determined AUCA. To my great fortune, there was build strong networks with many local business professional and a person a presentation about the U.S-CAEF and international leaders. With the who recognizes the importance of giv- program conducted by Tahmina Mar- help of our outstanding professors, I ing back to society. albaeva, a former U.S.-CAEF coordina-
20 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 KALYS ZHUMAKADYR UULU
HOMETOWN BULAN SOGOTTU, KYRGYZ REPUBLIC
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
AWARDS DEAN’S LIST FALL 2011, SPRING 2012, SPRING 2013
Living in a small village, I thought that it is impossible to explore the world. However, when you want something, the entire universe conspires to make your dreams come true.
Goal setting and determination brought fessional life. I started by running the International Community Assistance me to where I am now. It all started Business Clinic at AUCA. Through (FINCA), a microfinance organization. I when I was a student in high school. Liv- management and implementation think this internship will help me make ing in a small village, I thought that it is of community projects and surveys, a smoother transition from college life impossible to explore the world. How- and interaction with various compa- to the professional field. ever, when you want something, the nies, I learned about local businesses, Although I study hard, I always leave entire universe conspires to make your developed marketing and research some time for fun. I enjoy socializing dreams come true. skills, and learned about the benefits with my friends and like to play team of working in a good team. After my First, I was selected as a finalist of the sports like soccer, basketball, and second year of studies, I decided to Future Leaders Exchange Program to paintball. Moreover, I like meeting test my business knowledge in the real study in the USA. Living in the country people from other cultures, and I visit- world by interning at Karakol Coffee in of freedom, I not only explored this ed Tajikistan during one of my summer Issyk-Kul. This experience was an ex- amazing culture, but I also discovered breaks when I was involved in a re- cellent opportunity to see what chal- my intrinsic passion to contribute to search study on nomads. I also partici- lenges startups face and how things my country’s wellbeing and decided pated in a student exchange program are different and much more compli- to study business. Then, on returning in Istanbul in spring, 2013. Sometimes cated in real life than in books. I am home, I learned that I was awarded I envy my own life, as I feel very happy glad to have had this useful learning a U.S.-CAEF scholarship to study at having such wonderful experiences as experience. AUCA. Let me share with you how I a U.S.-CAEF Fellow. grew as a U.S.-CAEF Fellow. Now I am a senior and dedicate most of my time to my senior thesis and Since my freshman year, I have been my internship at the Foundation for preparing myself for a successful pro-
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 21 22 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 KIMEP UNIVERSITY SENIORS WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 23 GUFRONJON AYUBJONOV
HOMETOWN ISTARAVSHAN, TAJIKISTAN
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
AWARDS PRESIDENT’S LIST FALL 2011, Spring 2012 DEAN’S LIST Fall 2013
The U.S.-CAEF scholarship turned my dream into reality.... I must express my deep gratitude and thanks to the U.S.-CAEF administration, American Councils and KIMEP University professors and staff for their support and coordination.
Dreaming is a generator. When I was a versity life. Once I was a member of 7 dus Program. I spent my junior year in kid, I dreamed a lot. One of my dreams different student organizations. I know Lithuania. Studying in Europe helped was to study in the USA, but not ev- it sounds crazy, but I was really hyper- me broaden my world vision and en- erybody can afford that. But my dream active during my first year. I was proud rich my knowledge. came true. I didn’t go to study in the to be President of Top Talents (an This year was also full of great adven- USA, but I received my undergraduate AIESEC project) when I, a freshman, tures. I was named a finalist in the Ka- degree in an American-style universi- arranged business contests for senior zakhstan championship on business ty in Kazakhstan - KIMEP University. students from different Kazakhstani cases sponsored by Mars Company, The U.S.-CAEF scholarship turned my universities. During the second year, and I became the president of the U.S.- dream into reality. I became less active in social life and CAEF Association. Together with my concentrated more on my studies. But Originally, I am from one of the most team we have already organized four still I participated in some extracurricu- ancient cities of Tajikistan - Istaravshan, fun projects and events for our Fellows. lar activities. I served as the Vice-Pres- which has a history of more than 2,500 ident of Finance in the U.S.-CAEF As- This is my last semester at KIMEP years. I was very active during my high sociation and founded a new student University. It is sad because KIMEP is school time, and was even the presi- organization, the Central Asian Stu- already like my home. I must express dent of my school. I came third in the dent Association (CASA). CASA helps my deep gratitude and thanks to the state English language contest and was international students transition to U.S.-CAEF administration, American allowed to enter any Tajik university of their new life in Kazakhstan. Councils and KIMEP University profes- my choice without entrance exams, but sors and staff for their support and co- I chose to study at KIMEP University. Another achievement I am proud of is ordination. Thank you very much! my participation in an exchange pro- KIMEP changed my life. I found the gram sponsored by the Erasmus Mun- USA in KIMEP. I was very active in uni-
24 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 SAIDKABIR AZIZOV
HOMETOWN DUSHANBE, TAJIKISTAN
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Indeed, during four years of my undergraduate studies, I learned a lot and made some important commitments-- one of them is to be always open to new ideas: no matter where they take you, the important thing is to learn something new.
“Live as if you were to die tomorrow. I started my undergraduate business for an exchange program for one aca- Learn as if you were to live forever”- degree at KIMEP University in 2010. demic year in Fatih University, Istanbul. Mahatma Gandhi. For me education is KIMEP has changed my thinking, vision My life in Istanbul was very active and like breathing; without it, you cannot of life, and my plans for the future. The productive in my development and live. Getting an education is one of the past four years for me were very active. setting future plans. most indispensable goals of my life. I From the first year in KIMEP University, And here I am now, my last year in have always looked for the opportuni- I started joining different student orga- KIMEP University. It is a very touching ty to learn as much as I can. Indeed, nizations that matched my interests. moment when you know you are grad- during four years of my undergradu- Mostly I was involved in volunteer ac- uating, but I also know that now I have ate studies, I learned a lot and made tivities. I gained a lot of experience in friends who became part of my family some important commitments-- one leadership and organization. during this period. I want to express of them is to be always open to new In summer 2012, I had one of the big- my sincere and very deep gratitude to ideas: no matter where they take you, gest days of my life. My friends and I the U.S.-CAEF administration, my co- the important thing is to learn some- organized the TEDx Dushanbe confer- ordinators, and American Councils for thing new. ence under the theme “Aspire Today believing in me. U.S.-CAEF opened I come from a sunny land with an an- to Inspire Tomorrow.” We wanted to the doors of life to me and the key to cient history-- Tajikistan. I graduated bring new creative ideas to Tajikistan it was education. I also want to thank from the Tajik-Turkish Economics High and to inspire our young generation my family for their warm support; it is School in Dushanbe. The school pro- for the bright goals. We wanted to very important for me. And now it is vided a strong background for my fur- push our society from being thinkers time to move on! ther education. to being doers. Later, I was accepted
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 25 GUMYR DAULETBAK
HOMETOWN TALDYKORGAN, KAZAKHSTAN
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
It is sad that I am graduating from the university, because most of the interesting and exciting things happened during these four unforgettable years. KIMEP University gave me a lot of new friends, new opportunities, and new views on life.
I grew up in Karaganda, the fourth Now I am in my final year at KIMEP President of the Future Businessmen largest city in Kazakhstan and not far University, majoring in finance and mi- Group (FBG). The club is mostly en- from the capital, Astana. After I fin- noring in leadership. Participation in gaged in organizing charity events for ished high school, my parents moved the Leadership Development Program orphans, fund-raising activities, and to Taldykorgan, a smaller town located will definitely increase my chances for various fun events for KIMEP students, in the southeastern part of the coun- better employment and help me be- such as paintball, a sweets fair, etc. I try. I graduated from the Kazakh-Turk- come a business leader. What really am also the Vice-President of KIMEP ish High School in Karaganda. While sets the program apart is the opportu- Entrepreneurs Club which is the first in high school, I decided to be a fi- nity to meet some top business lead- official non-profit student organization nancier. I wanted to find a university ers and solve business cases working in Almaty. The goal of this club is ad- with the best business program, and closely with my peers as well as senior vancement of business ideas of young I needed a scholarship because my executives from leading organizations entrepreneurs as well as increasing the family couldn’t afford my education. in a real-world business context. The financial literacy among the students The U.S.-CAEF Fellowship Program program puts a lot of emphasis on of KIMEP University. It is sad that I am made my dreams come true by giving personal leadership awareness and graduating from the university, because me an opportunity to study in one of skills development. most of the interesting and exciting the best universities in Central Asia-- things happened during these four I was able to successfully test my lead- KIMEP University. I want to express my unforgettable years. KIMEP University ership skills outside the classroom by sincere gratitude to U.S.-CAEF for giv- gave me a lot of new friends, new op- participating in different student orga- ing me this great chance. portunities, and new views on life. nizations and clubs. Currently, I am the
26 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 ALI HAMRAYEV
HOMETOWN TURKMENABAT, TURKMENISTAN
MAJOR FINANCE & MARKETING
AWARDS PRESIDENT’S LIST- FALL 2011, 2013
...my passion and interest in math, leadership, and international relations pointed to one field-- business.... Now I’m one of the few Turkmen students graduating this year, and I’m proud to say that I reached this point thanks to the generous support of the U.S.-CAEF program.
Being attracted by various career op- reached this point thanks to the gener- related to my majors but also was a tions when I was in high school, at first ous support of the U.S.-CAEF program. great chance for me to improve my I couldn’t decide what path to choose, I’m double-majoring in two different Spanish and motivated me to organize but my passion and interest in math, spheres: finance and marketing. a Spanish club at KIMEP University. leadership, and international relations The university opened multiple oppor- Besides my studies and extra-curricular pointed to one field-- business. tunities for my personal development. activities, I’m also interning at the U.S. While still in high school, I was selected I took advantage of two study abroad Commercial Service of the U.S. Depart- for the Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX) programs. First, I spent my spring 2012 ment of Commerce. During my studies program and spent one year in the U.S. semester at Fatih University in Istanbul. at KIMEP, I had a great opportunity to experiencing American life. That year Following the semester in Turkey, I won work as an assistant to the dean of the served as an inspiration for all of the the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship and College of Business, the President’s Of- achievements I have gained until now. had an opportunity to spend my junior fice at KIMEP University, and to one of year at the Universidad de Santiago the founders of the university, Hartmut The scholarship award letter from de Compostela, Spain. There I had a Fischer, Ph.D., a visiting professor from U.S.-CAEF was a grand present for my chance to get familiar with the Europe- the University of San Francisco. graduation from high school. I was very an education system, life, and culture excited to study business at KIMEP Uni- My next step is to continue my studies and meet more friends from all over the versity as it has one of the best business in business at the graduate level to bet- universe. I can definitely say that these schools in the world. Now I’m one of ter prepare myself for a successful ca- are the best and unforgettable years of the few Turkmen students graduating reer path. my student life. The year spent in Spain this year, and I’m proud to say that I gave me not only valuable knowledge
• ALI HAS BEEN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE U.S.-CAEF POST-GRADUATE INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN FALL 2014
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 27 BAHTIYAR JALILOV
HOMETOWN TURKMENABAT, TURKMENISTAN
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
AWARDS PRESIDENT’S LIST FALL 2011, FALL 2013 DEAN’S LIST SPRING 2013
For me, U.S.-CAEF is not only a scholarship that covers my tuition, but also it is a micro-environment that gives me an opportunity to become part of the business elite.
I was born in Turkmenabat, the sec- and cultural events that helped me aid system, and, in particular, the work ond largest city in Turkmenistan, in the demonstrate and develop my full po- of the World Bank Group. The intern- east of the country. I graduated from tential. In my second year, I received ship gave me a wonderful opportunity the Turkmen-Turkish high school in my a grant to participate in the Preparing to try my analytical and social skills. home town. In 2008, to get familiar with Global Leadership Summit (PGLS). This This internship helped me grow pro- the international education experience, is a seven-day program for select stu- fessionally, and confirmed my career I enrolled in a preparatory program in dents and young professionals around choice to work in the public sector. AUCA. This one-year program helped the world. The summit was held in I had a feeling that I was making an me explore student life and expand my Moscow within the framework of the important contribution to the develop- views not only in education, but also in Russian Presidential Academy of Na- ment of my home country. cross-cultural and social areas. Later, I tional Economy and Public Administra- For me, U.S.-CAEF is not only a schol- entered the Economics Department tion (RANEPA) and with the support of arship that covers my tuition, but also and was awarded a U.S.-CAEF full some of the best faculty members from it is a micro-environment that gives scholarship to study in AUCA. Georgetown University (USA). me an opportunity to become part of In 2010, I transferred from AUCA to the As for my professional development, the business elite. I am proud to be a Department of Economics of KIMEP in summer 2013, I had an internship U.S.-CAEF Fellow, and I am extremely University, Almaty, Kazakhstan. During at the World Bank Liaison Office in grateful to U.S-CAEF for providing me my studies, I was actively involved in Turkmenistan. The internship was a with this opportunity. different extracurricular student activ- great experience in terms of learning ities. I participated in different social about the international development
28 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 AIGERIM NURGALIEVA
HOMETOWN KARAGANDA, KAZAKHSTAN
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
AWARDS DEAN’S LIST- SPRING 2011, Spring 2013
Studying at KIMEP University was not just a page in my life. I can say that it changed my life because now I can be a good citizen of my country, contributing to its development. Thank you, U.S.-CAEF!
My name is Aigerim Nurgaliyeva. I am cellent business education and to be important orphanage program and from Karaganda, Kazakhstan. From my part of interesting university life. was fully in charge of the logistical as- early childhood, my Mom has been pects of the events that we organized During my college years I participated encouraging me to be active and ex- for children. I had to take into account in the activities of such organizations plore new things. I loved to dance; every detail from arranging the enter- on campus as KIMEP Legal Clinic, In- therefore I attended national dance tainment program to serving food to tellectual Debate Club (IDC), and the classes when I was in elementary orphans. My experience at the Legal KIMEP International Students Associa- school. Next were chess classes, swim- Clinic was especially gratifying. I pro- tion (KISA), where I had an opportunity ming, acrobatics, and theater. While vided free consultations on legal is- to develop skills in marketing, finance, taking part in these activities, I realized sues to people who could not afford leadership, and accounting. Participa- that whatever you do you should do to hire lawyers. tion in leadership seminars helped me it with your whole heart and patience. understand and shape my future goals. Studying at KIMEP University was not Another important thing that I’ve In IDC I learned about the force of per- just a page in my life. I can say that learned through my experiences is suasion and how to become an effec- it changed my life because now I can that one should never stop dreaming. I tive communicator, while participation be a good citizen of my country, con- have wanted to study at KIMEP Univer- in KISA helped me improve my orga- tributing to its development. sity since I was 15, and I tried my best nizational skills. I organized two major Thank you, U.S.-CAEF! to get into this university. Fortunately, university events—a masquerade ball U.S.-CAEF helped me make it real. I’m and Nauryz. I was also involved in an grateful to the U.S.-CAEF program for this great opportunity to receive an ex-
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 29 MALIKA PULOTOVA
HOMETOWN AKSAI, KAZAKHSTAN
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
AWARDS PRESIDENT’S LIST SPRING 2011, SPRING 2012, FALL 2012, SPRING 2013, FALL 2013
I am happy that my student life has been full of opportunities that I could use to my advantage. U.S.-CAEF gave me a unique chance to experience real business education and helped me realize my potential.
I am very grateful to the U.S.-CAEF well, where I learned to perform in front and was honored to be part of this sys- Board for giving me the opportuni- of a large audience. Thanks to U.S.- tem that manages the whole state. ty to study in KIMEP University. The CAEF’s regional internship program, I Currently, I am interning at the mar- experience was really life-changing. had a chance to work in the market- keting department of Coca-Cola In addition to invaluable academic ing department of a local TV compa- Company. I am glad that I was chosen knowledge, I had many opportunities ny, Channel 7, after my second year of to participate in this competitive and to develop myself. My student life will study. The experience confirmed my unique internship during my senior remain the most unforgettable time choice of majoring year. The most important thing that for me because during these years in marketing. I have learned is that every oppor- I acquired the knowledge and skills KIMEP University always supports a tunity is a chance to succeed or to necessary for my future career, and student’s interest in professional de- gain valuable experience. I am hap- had a chance to participate in inter- velopment, and I had a chance to gain py that my student life has been full esting activities. During my first year experience in the human resource of opportunities that I could use to in the university, I joined AIESEC, the management field. As HR is my second my advantage. U.S.-CAEF gave me biggest international student organiza- major, I was very happy to be selected a unique chance to experience real tion, where I organized two big events: as a finalist in the Government Intern- business education and helped me the Planning Conference and the Lead- ship Program. I spent one month in the realize my potential. U.S.-CAEF is a ership Development Seminar for new HR department at the Ministry of Econ- big family that unites students from members of the organization. The ex- omy and Budget Planning of the Re- Central Asian countries, people who perience helped me develop my lead- public of Kazakhstan. The experience can contribute to the development of ership, management, and communica- was truly unique. I learned about the their home countries. I am very grate- tion skills. I also joined the Kazakhstan structure of the governmental system ful and happy to be part of it. English Language Theater (KELT) as
• MALIKA BEEN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE U.S.-CAEF POST-GRADUATE INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN FALL 2014
30 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 ASKAR SAPARBEKOV
HOMETOWN SEMEY, KAZAKHSTAN
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
AWARDS DEAN’S LIST FALL 2010
Looking back, I can say that I have learned a lot.... I appreciate and will remember everything that this fellowship has done for me. Now I am ready for the next stage of my life.
I was born in a small village, Makan- to choose this field as my minor. I am leadership, and organizational skills. chi, in East Kazakhstan. I always liked planning to explore this area even fur- This was the most amazing time spent creating and implementing things, ther after graduation. together with my team of Fellows. that is why I wanted to study business Another great experience at KIMEP In addition, I try to devote some time at KIMEP University. And my dream University is connected with the to sports as well. Sports have also con- was realized thanks to the U.S.-CAEF KIMEP Entrepreneurs’ Club, the first tributed a lot to my personal develop- scholarship. I am very happy and official KIMEP student-run organiza- ment. Currently, I am President of the proud that U.S.-CAEF gave me such tion that I co-founded. The mission of KIMEP Taekwondo Organization. an opportunity. the club is to serve as an effective plat- KIMEP University has totally changed The four years at KIMEP University form for the KIMEP student commu- my world view. I became more active. I have passed very quickly. Looking nity to network; learn and share ideas have acquired many useful skills which back, I can say that I have learned a with distinguished Kazakhstani entre- will help me succeed in life. Thank you, lot. KIMEP University provides great preneurs through workshops, profes- U.S.-CAEF, for giving me this opportu- opportunities for educational and sional training, and conferences; and nity to realize myself! I appreciate and professional development, including apply business knowledge and skills will remember everything that this fel- study abroad programs that help stu- in practice through business plan con- lowship has done for me. Now I am dents expand their knowledge and tests and social enterprise projects. As ready for the next stage of my life. I find new career paths. Participation the President of the club, I implement- know that many exciting achievements in a summer 2013 program in Xiamen ed many business and charity projects. are awaiting me in the future, and that University, China helped me increase Involvement in these activities gave should never stop! my interest in taxation, and I decided me a chance to develop my creativity,
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 31 YERZHAN SMAGULOV
HOMETOWN TALDYKORGAN, KAZAKHSTAN
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
AWARDS DEAN’S LIST FALL 2010, SPRING 2011
I truly believe that all these successes are the result of the right decisions .... It is important to choose an active position in life!
During my first years at KIMEP Uni- chair of a budget committee, making state agencies, national holdings, and versity, I decided to be active in social key decisions, and budget planning. members of Parliament. I was honored events and became a member of dif- to be one of the seven students repre- During my senior year I was selected ferent academic, sports, and student senting the city of Almaty. to represent KIMEP University and the clubs. My decision gave good results, city of Almaty at different conferences Recently, because of my active leader- and I can surely say that my student life and seminars. Although all of these ship role and positive contribution to was successful and productive for me. events were of great value, two of university life, I was named the Person During the first two years I was a mem- them became most memorable. The of The Year during KIMEP Awards, an ber of different student organizations. first is a youth political camp, Youth event organized by KIMEP PIE, a uni- Participation in these activities was to Motherland, which was organized versity club that publishes a student enriching and fun, but I wanted to ex- by Zhas Otan, the youth wing of the magazine. I am proud of this title and plore other opportunities and apply leading party of Kazakhstan Nur Otan. grateful to my Fellow students for this my leadership skills. So in my junior The second is the XV Congress of Nur honor. I truly believe that all these suc- year I decided to try myself in student Otan, which was held in Astana under cesses are the result of the right deci- government-- the KIMEP Student As- the chairmanship of its leader, Pres- sions, which helped me become what I sociation (KSA). I ran for Vice-President ident of the Republic of Kazakhstan, am now: the FLEX Exchange Program, of Finance (VPF) and won the election. Nursultan Nazarbayev. The Congress the U.S.-CAEF Fellowship, KIMEP This year I ran for the same position was attended by 1,200 delegates University, the KIMEP Student Asso- again and was reelected. As a future from all regional branches of the par- ciation, sports, and my active student financier, the position of VPF gives me ty and more than a thousand invited life. It is important to choose an active excellent experience in working as a guests, among whom were heads of position in life!
32 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 KHEDZHERA SULEYEVA
HOMETOWN DRUZHBA, KYRGYZ REPUBLIC
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
AWARDS Dean’s List Spring 2011, Fall 2011, Fall 2013
I am very thankful to U.S- CAEF for providing a very supportive environment for my development. Now I am sure that with this educational background I can courageously step toward the future and be useful for my country.
I grew up in the small mountainous In addition to academics, I had an op- joyable student life. I took part in the country of Kyrgyzstan. After graduat- portunity to work at the university. I was talent shows and Chaikhana (a cultur- ing from the Kyrgyz-Turkish Girls High an office assistant at the KIMEP Tax al team building event) organized by School, I decided to apply to KIMEP Center, where I conducted a Central the U.S.-CAEF Student Association, University, because it is one of the Asian tax research project. Also, I assist- gained confidence in my leadership leading western-style universities in ed a professor who taught Operations potential through AIESEC activities Central Asia. Winning a U.S.-CAEF Management and Information Systems. (an international student organization), scholarship made it possible for me I had an opportunity to use my knowl- and competed in challenging business to study at this renowned institution. edge outside the campus as well. Af- games sponsored by Procter & Gam- I would like to highlight some of my ter my second year of studies, as part ble. Recently, together with another student experiences. of the U.S.-CAEF Internship Program, fellow, Gufronjon Ayubjonov, I par- I interned at Rosenthal Collins Group ticipated in a business contest spon- Definitely, the university provides Investment Fund. During my intern- sored by Mars Company, and we were knowledge relevant to the Central ship, I conducted extensive research named finalists. Asian region. I’ve enjoyed almost all and analysis of different commodity subjects at KIMEP University, but Busi- I am so happy to be one of the Fellows markets, created financial models for ness Law became my favorite course. and very thankful to U.S- CAEF for pro- selected assets, and analyzed mining It is a branch of law that examines top- viding a very supportive environment projects. This first professional experi- ics that impact business operations. At for my development. Now I am sure ence was very important for me. the end of this course, we had a moot that with this educational background court litigation process, where we ap- At KIMEP University, I had an opportu- I can courageously step toward the fu- plied the rights of physical entities and nity not only to build my career path, ture and be useful for my country. businesses engaged in commerce. but also I have had an extremely en-
• KHEDZHERA HAS BEEN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE U.S.-CAEF POST-GRADUATE INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN FALL 201
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 33 DILOBAR TUYCHIEVA
HOMETOWN TASHKENT, UZBEKISTAN
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
AWARDS PRESIDENT’S LIST SPRING 2011, FALL 2012 DEAN’S LIST- FALL 2013
...part of me will always stay with the U.S.-CAEF program, with KIMEP University, and with all the people whom I have met and respect very much.
I am a U.S.-CAEF Fellow from Uzbeki- Thanks to my high school achieve- management, analytical thinking, and stan. I was born and raised in Tashkent. ments and the support from U.S.- research skills. I graduated from the English Linguis- CAEF, I became a student of KIMEP Moreover, I met wonderful people tic School in 2007 and continued my University in Almaty, Kazakhstan. from different countries and was able study in the Turkish academic lyceum, Studying at KIMEP provided me with to share cultural experiences with part of the Tashkent State Institute of a wonderful and very valuable four them. These people became part of Oriental Studies. During my years in years of great experiences and oppor- my life. I have unforgettable memories high school, I participated in many tunities, helped me understand myself about my student life which will stay prestigious academic contests and better, and defined the professional with me forever. won numerous awards. Just to name path I want to take in my life. I select- a few, I won a poetry contest in 2007; ed finance as my major and marketing After graduation, I want to continue came second in a challenging city as my minor. my education and pursue a master’s math competition; became one of degree in business administration. During these years at the university, I the winners of Brilliant Mind, a con- Then I am planning to return to Uz- met highly skilled professors and re- test that required good knowledge bekistan and implement all gained ceived a good education. In addition, I in mathematics, history, literature and knowledge and experience in my was able to work as a full-time research physics; and in spring 2010, I won a home country. However, part of me assistant for a marketing professor for contest devoted to the 2200th anni- will always stay with the U.S.-CAEF two semesters. I assisted the professor versary of Tashkent, which was orga- program, with KIMEP University, and in both research and writing a book nized by the Ministry of Education of with all the people whom I have met length manuscript. This work expe- Uzbekistan and embassies of eight and respect very much. rience helped me improve my time foreign countries.
34 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 SAKINA YASAKIEVA
HOMETOWN KHOROG, TAJIKISTAN
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
AWARDS PRESIDENT’S LIST SPRING 2011, FALL 2012, 2013 DEAN’S LIST FALL 2010, SPRING 2011, 2012, 2013
I believe the knowledge and experience that I have acquired in KIMEP University are very valuable and will be appreciated by any organization.
I was born in the small town of Khorog It is a great pleasure for me to study had to come up with different market- in Pamir, the eastern part of Tajiki- at KIMEP University and be part of the ing and advertising strategies to at- stan. Prior to KIMEP University, I had amazing U.S.-CAEF family. I am major- tract buyers. studied in the Lyceum Aga-Khan for ing in Finance and minoring in Mar- I am also a member of Open Hearts, a eleven years. This school is one of the keting. I love both fields of study, but small organization created by our U.S.- top schools in Tajikistan; it provided I think that Finance is what I was born CAEF Fellows, where I teach English to me with excellent education and also for. I hope that my willingness to be- children in two orphanages in Almaty. helped me find my path in life. come the best specialist in this sphere will help me pursue my dreams. All these amazing experiences were While in high school, I was selected to possible thanks to the support from participate in the Future Leaders Ex- Besides my studies at the university, U.S.-CAEF. I am so grateful to the change program (FLEX) in 2008. This I’ve been actively involved in different Foundation for providing this great program gave me an opportunity to extracurricular activities. Notably, I was opportunity. I believe the knowledge live and study in the United States. I one of the co-founders of the KIMEP and experience that I have acquired attended the Owego Free Academy Entrepreneurs’ Club in 2010, the first in KIMEP University are very valuable in Owego, NY, and became part of an student-run business on campus. This and will be appreciated by any organi- amazing host family. When I returned was an amazing experience because zation. My long-term goals are to con- to my hometown, I finished my se- we were the first students to start tinue my education and acquire a mas- nior year and after receiving my high the project, ‘Proud of KIMEP,’ which ter’s degree in finance and become a school diploma in 2010, I applied and enhances the image of our university leading professional in an international was accepted to KIMEP University and through selling T-shirts, hoodies, and organization in my home country. received a U.S.-CAEF scholarship. other items with the KIMEP logo. We
• SAKINA HAS BEEN SELECTED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE U.S.-CAEF POST-GRADUATE INTERNATIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN FALL 2014
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 35 DASTAN ZHUMAGULOV
HOMETOWN KOSTANAY, KAZAKHSTAN
MAJOR BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
AWARDS PRESIDENT’S LIST-FALL 2011, FALL 2013 DEAN’S LIST-SPRING 2011, SPRING 2012, SPRING 2013
I am endlessly grateful to all-- the staff and the management of the U.S.-CAEF program-- for providing us with such great opportunities for growth. I appreciate the trust you have put in us and look forward to using the knowledge in the real world for the benefit of Central Asia.
While in high school, I received nu- My major is finance. I am happy with ternship helped me confirm my ma- merous awards at English Olympiads. my choice, because it has been a very jor and realize what to focus on. Af- However, I knew that English is only a unique and rewarding experience to ter taking major finance courses next means of achieving my goals, but not study at KIMEP University. I was lucky year, my second internship at Kazyna the area of my future career. Long be- to be taught by really passionate pro- Capital Management, a private equity fore joining the program, I had decid- fessors who were able to foster my fund, became more substantial. I was ed to study economics and finance. interest in the subjects they taught, proud to be able to handle sophisti- namely Donald Hoskins, Michael Con- cated tasks, and happy to make my Luckily enough, U.S.-CAEF appeared rad, Zhuldyzbek Abylkhozhin, Aiger- contribution to the company. on the horizon, which was a chance I im Kalybai, Irina Pya, Olga Pak, and knew I had to grab, because studying I am also very proud to be part of Aiman Issayeva. I feel grateful for the at KIMEP University was something I U.S.-CAEF and to be among these knowledge and inspiration they have desired very much but could not af- bright and talented people. I am end- given me. ford. I even decided to skip my high lessly grateful to all-- the staff and school graduation event because In addition to my studies, I took ad- the management of the U.S.-CAEF shortly before my commencement I vantage of internship opportunities. program-- for providing us with such learned that I had to take an entrance After my second year, as part of U.S.- great opportunities for growth. I ap- exam to KIMEP University. I packed CAEF, I interned at ADM Capital In- preciate the trust you have put in us quickly and went to Almaty. There is vestment Fund. It was a great first and look forward to using the knowl- more to it yet: I had to rush at the exam professional experience. However, edge in the real world for the benefit too since I had to get on the train back I was still quite unfamiliar with more of Central Asia. on the same day. Later, I was surprised specific knowledge, so I couldn’t to learn that I was among those who work on important tasks. But the in- scored the highest that year.
36 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 Alumni Association
The U.S.-CAEF Alumni Association (the Association) develops and enhances The Associations’ the involvement of Enterprise Fellowship program alumni in supporting and leadership team represents complementing the mission and goals of the Foundation through communication, both AUCA and KIMEP service and leadership. University and three of the five Central Asian U.S.-CAEF alumni work in large international corporations, leading domestic Republics: enterprises, and small- or medium-sized businesses throughout Central Asia.
Several have shown their entrepreneurial skills and started their own businesses, TANGULU DIUSHAKHMATOVA while others have decided to further their education and are pursuing their MBAs. PRESIDENT AUDIT ASSISTANT, KPMG This year, twenty five new graduates join the U.S.-CAEF Alumni Association, bringing the total number of program alumni to 112. OKSANA KOVALENKO VICE-PRESIDENT The Association hopes that the graduating class of 2014 will join in their efforts to establish an important platform for communication and cooperation between all FOR COMMUNICATION program alumni, current fellows and local business communities to complement ASSISTANT MANAGER the Foundation’s goals in fostering the U.S.-CAEF mission, promoting professional LAHMEYER INTERNATIONAL development and contributing to an entrepreneurial spirit and the economic prosperity of Central Asia. ALYONA LI VICE-PRESIDENT FOR MEMBERSHIP & OUTREACH PROJECT MANAGER PROMOTANK LLC
AZIZ YULDASHEV VICE-PRESIDENT FOR MEMBERSHIP & OUTREACH ADMINISTRATOR TASHKENT SEWERAGE PROJECT
ARYSTAN MOLDABEKOV TREASURER ADVANCED STAFF ASSURANCE DEPARTMENT ERNST & YOUNG
AISALKYN MUSABAEVA VICE-PRESIDENT FOR SOCIAL ACTIVITIES PROJECT MANAGER PROMOTANK LLC
MOLDIR KUSSAINOVA VICE-PRESIDENT AUCA SENIORS WITH STEVE LUSTIG, CHAIR OF THE BUSINESS DEPARTMENT FOR SOCIAL ACTIVITIES CUSTOMER MANAGER BEIERSDORF
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 37 The Foundation’s Faculty & Intern Fellowships
Enterprise Faculty Fellowships
The Foundation has sponsored and delivered several faculty training development programs since its inception in 2007. In 2010 the Foundation launched a focused 2-year faculty training program, developed and delivered by Fairfield University (Fairfield, CT, USA), which consisted of three separate intensive in-person sessions within the region and ongoing remote training and communication between the Fairfield University team and faculty participants. The program was extended and in May, 2014, these efforts culminated in the publication of “Business Education in Central Asia: Best Practices in Integrative Study and Teaching”. A landmark accomplishment in the field of pedagogical scholarship in Central Asia, Business Education is a compilation of articles by AUCA and KIMEP faculty who participated in development workshops and report on their experiences in creatively adapting and applying the principles of integrative study and teaching within the contexts of their universities. Fairfield faculty members continue to work with colleagues at AUCA and KIMEP University on materials and activities that will further build upon the work accomplished during the development program.
Enterprise Intern Fellowships
Through our Enterprise Intern Fellowships, the Foundation seeks to afford its Student Fellows the opportunity to gain (1) practical work experience within Central Asia early in their university careers through our Regional Summer Internship Program and (2) a post-graduate educational, vocational and cultural experience in the United States or other countries that serve as positive examples of democratic open-market economies through our International Internship Program.
SAPAR IBRAEV KHEDZHERA SULEYEVA
38 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014 Regional Summer Internship Program The Foundation is grateful to the companies in Kazakhstan and the Kyrgyz Republic that Since 2008, the Foundation has operated a Regional Summer Internship Program, have hosted Enterprise Summer Interns, which include: which is made available on a competitive basis to a limited number of student fellows completing their second year of university study. Both AUCA and KIMEP ADM Capital University require their business and economics students to undertake a formal Alpha Telecom internship towards the end of their third year as a degree requirement. The Ardamina Textile Company Foundation’s summer internship program, which includes orientation and support Asia Universal Bank for the interns, is intended as an opportunity to become familiar with the business Bai Tushum & Partners environment, enhance skills and lead to more informed choices in selecting the Microfinance Bank degree-required internship. Seven Student Fellows from the graduating 2014 Beeline class, Sapar Ibraev, Kalys Zhumakadyr uulu, Aliia Sultanova and Nazokat CAI Consulting Omuralieva from AUCA, and Malika Pulotova, Dastan Zhumagulov and Center for Educational Assessment & Khedzhera Suleyeva from KIMEP University, participated in the summer 2012 Teaching Methods Regional Internship Program. All of the Fellows rated the experience highly and Channel 7 commented on the valuable learning outcomes of the internship. Demir Kyrgyz International Bank FINCA Flamingo Park Post-Graduate International Internship Program HSBC Bank International Business Council The Post-Graduate International Capstone Internship Program, launched in Karakol Coffee Shop 2011, is a four month work-study program in the U.S. designed to complement KazInvest four years of university study. Student Fellows who successfully complete their KazNetEvents studies and graduate from AUCA or KIMEP University are eligible to apply for Kyrgyz Concept the competitive International Internship. Seven outstanding Student Fellows from Kyrgyz Kredit Bank the 2014 graduating class have been selected to take part in the International MegaCom Capstone Internship Program in fall, 2014: Madina Damir kyzy, Ignatii Kim and National Leasing Company Yelena Vorobey from AUCA, and Ali Hamrayev, Malika Pulotova, Khedzhera Polygon International, Ltd and from KIMEP University. Suleyeva Sakina Yasakieva Project Hope Promotank The Foundation’s International Interns take part in an established and success- RCG Investment Fund proven program operated by The Washington Center (www.twc.edu), Washington, DC. In addition to the vocational and educational components of the internship, Sberbank of Russia Enterprise International Interns live and participate with interns from the U.S. and Talas Copper Gold, LLC other countries who have recently completed their undergraduate studies; and The Farm will benefit from events provided by The Washington Center where they have The United Nations the opportunity to build their international and professional contact network and The U.S. Embassy in Bishkek, interact with experts and leaders from public, private and non-profit sectors; and Kyrgyz Republic participate in other activities arranged by American Councils.
The Foundation is grateful for support from the U.S. Government, its citizens and the Central Asian-American Enterprise Fund, which have made its operation possible.
WWW.US-CAEF.COM | 39 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Stephen D. Weinroth Chairman | Director | Hovnanian Enterprises, Inc.
Margaret M. Grieve Vice Chair | President | PMG Management, Inc.
Mary S. Ginsberg Former Curator | Department of Asia|The British Museum
Steven F. Shea President & Chief Executive Officer (retired), Rockingham Bancorp
U.S. GOVERNMENT LIAISON TO THE BOARD
Jonathan Addleton Regional Mission Director U.S. Agency for International Education
OFFICERS
Steven F. Shea President & CEO
Holly Burns Senior Accountant
PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR AMERICAN COUNCILS FOR INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION
LEGAL COUNSEL
Robert Odle, Esq. Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP
AUDITORS Cummings, Lamont and McNamee, P.A. U.S.-CAEF BOARD (FROM LEFT TO RIGHT) STEVEN SHEA, STEPHEN WEINROTH, MARGARET GRIEVE & MARY GINSBERG
40 | U.S.-CAEF GRADUATION 2014
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PHOTO CREDITS: BAKHROM TURSUNOV/AUCA
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1 U.S. - Central Asia Education Foundation 1 Shepherds Lane, North Hampton, NH 03862 Phone/Fax 1-603-964-2845 Email: Steven F, Shea, [email protected] www.us-caef.com
American Councils for International Education 1828 L Street, N.W. – Suite 1200 Washington, DC 20036 Phone: 1-202-833-7522 Fax: 1-202-822-1689 Email: David Patton, [email protected] www.americancouncils.org PHOTO CREDITS: DASTAN ZHUMAGULOV/KIMEP