Special Events

Jump to an event to learn more:

Dine with the Dean

Associate Dean of Students Debra Wood hosts a monthly dinner for students during which they can ask questions and discuss the University’s plans as they affect students. The event promotes an ongoing dialogue between the student body and the administration and happens to be a lot of fun.

Doha Debates Taping

Northwestern students, faculty and staff are invited to attend tapings of the show Doha Debates. Students can also assist with elements of the show’s production.

Food for Thought

An occasional event in which a NU-Q faculty member invites students to lunch. The time allows students to learn more about the professor’s academic life, ask questions of their intellectual biography, and get to know them better outside of the classroom. Contact Student Events for upcoming talks. 

Lectures and Seminars

NU-Q has seen an impressive series of guests, ranging from New Yorker Beijing Bureau Chief Evan Osnos to filmmaker Ian Cheny and many more. Students have also had the opportunity to hear U.S. Secreatary of State Hillary Clinton, U.S. Secretary of Energy Steven Chu, and CitiBank CEO Vikram Pandit speak without even leaving the building they study in everyday.

Guest speakers and seminars help students link their studies to global themes like sustainability, diversity, international education, and the arts. Past and recurring guest lectures and seminars include:

  • Filmmaker Ian Cheney’s Qatar premiere of his film, The Greening of Southie. (November 2009)
  • Arts month, a city-wide seminar that integrates students’ college experience with the arts. (February each year)
  • Shades of Purple Week is a cultural awareness week for Northwestern. Vavious speakers will discuss issues related to diversity. (Fall 2011)

QatarDebate Tournaments

QatarDebate organizes University debate tournaments and workshops throughout the year. In 2010, three NU-Q students did Northwestern proud with their stellar performances.

Rockstar Awards Show

The Rockstar Awards Show, which is organized and run entirely by students, allows students to thank and recognize members of our community who have made a special contribution to the University. Recognized students, staff and faculty walk the purple carpet to receive their award while student emcees announce the honors.

New Events

If you have an idea for a new student event that would benefit campus, you might be able to make that idea a reality through an NU Idea! Grant. Learn about these grants.