“David B. Kriser Medal” to an Emirati International Humanitarian Leader for the First Time
Abdulsalam AlMadani Receives NYU’s Highest Honor for His Remarkable Contributions to Healthcare, Education and Humanitarian Causes
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – February 6, 2025: In an unprecedented and exceptional event, a global honorary ceremony was held last night in Dubai, during which His Excellency Amb. Dr. Abdulsalam AlMadani, Roving Ambassador of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM) for the GCC Region, Chairman of AEEDC Dubai and the Global Scientific Dental Alliance (GSDA) from the United Arab Emirates, was awarded the “David B. Kriser Medal”—the highest honor presented by the New York University College of Dentistry.
The prestigious medal was awarded by a high-level delegation from New York University, led by Professor Michael O’Connor, Executive Vice Dean at New York University College of Dentistry, Clinical Professor, and Co-Director of the Center for Oral Health Policy and Management. The delegation also included Dr. Howard Lieb, Special Assistant to the Dean, Clinical Associate Professor, and International Project Coordinator from NYU College of Dentistry, Prof. Dr. Anabella Oquendo, Assistant Dean for International Programs, Specialist in Aesthetic Dentistry, Prof. Dr. Richard Valachovic, Clinical Professor in Pediatric Dentistry,and Prof. Amr Moursi, Professor and Chair of the Department of Pediatric Dentistry and NYU.
The esteemed recognition was presented to His Excellency Amb. Dr. Abdulsalam AlMadani during a distinguished ceremony attended by notable dignitaries from the United Arab Emirates and the United States, along with heads of delegations participating in the 29th edition of AEEDC Dubai—the world’s largest event dedicated to dentistry and oral health.
This prestigious recognition acknowledges His Excellency Amb. Dr. Abdulsalam AlMadani’s pioneering achievements and visionary leadership have left a profound impact on healthcare, humanitarian efforts, and education and contributions that have significantly improved the lives of countless individuals and communities across the globe.
This medal represents the highest international honor and holds a special global significance, as it is being awarded for the first time to a recipient from outside the United States. This reflects the esteemed global recognition of His Excellency Amb. Dr. Abdulsalam AlMadani’s outstanding accomplishments and continuous contributions to advancing healthcare, education, humanitarian work, and development.
Furthermore, the David B. Kriser Medal is the highest distinction granted by New York University—a prestigious award reserved for individuals who have made exceptional and pioneering contributions to these critical fields. This marks the first time an Emirati leader has received this esteemed honor.
Expressing his pride and gratitude, His Excellency Amb. Dr. Abdulsalam AlMadani, Roving Ambassador of PAM for the GCC Region, Chairman of AEEDC Dubai, and GSDA, stated:
“It is a great honor to receive this distinguished medal from New York University on behalf of the United Arab Emirates—a nation that stands as a beacon of excellence and innovation in healthcare and education. This honor is a testament to the collective efforts we undertake in the UAE, driven by strategic partnerships across various sectors and the unwavering support of our government in advancing scientific progress worldwide. It is a profound responsibility and an immense privilege to be the first recipient of this recognition outside the United States. I sincerely thank New York University for their continued appreciation of our contributions to improving healthcare and humanitarian efforts. My heartfelt thanks go to all colleagues and institutions that have supported this journey. I reaffirm my commitment to continuing our efforts to achieve even greater milestones in the future.”
He further emphasized the vital role of education in shaping future generations and building a sustainable future, adding: “The UAE’s wise leadership has set a clear vision for the advancement of education, ensuring alignment with the highest global standards. This has been achieved through significant investments in infrastructure that focus on continuous education and sustainable humanitarian work.”
This esteemed recognition is a testament to the UAE’s forward-thinking initiatives, including the “UAE Vision 2071,” which aspires to establish an integrated education system that fosters leadership and innovation. Through these efforts, the UAE has become a global model for educational development.
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