Four candidates for faculty positions at Alfaisal University visited the UPP on May 26.  Alfaisal University asked the UPP to host the candidates in order to familiarize them with the UPP – its curriculum, educational approach, and students.  The candidates represented the fields of biology, chemisty, bio-ethics, and economics.

Mark Johnstone, UPP English Department Chairman and long-time resident of Saudi Arabia, had a long conversation with the faculty candidates.  All four had questions about the educational climate in Saudi Arabia, the culture, and the ways in which the UPP is preparing students for higher education.  Mr. Johnstone noted, “The candidates were excited at the prospect of being founding faculty of a new world class university, helping to develop new programs in their fields.”

The candidates ate lunch with UPP students in the cafeteria.  Each candidate was hosted by a student government representative who walked him through the lunch line, explained the traditional food on the buffet, and introduced students who wanted to ask questions about the respective candidate’s field.