Moving On

I have been involved with the Islamic Center at New York University since I was an undergraduate at the University.  For the last few years, I have served as Director of Public Relations.  Effective immediately, I no longer hold that position. 

I will continue to be involved with the Islamic Center in several capacities, namely as an occasional khateeb (I will soon be doing the same at the Islamic Center of Long Island)and on other projects, such as the Umrah trip scheduled for March 2010.  However, my official capacity at the Islamic Center has ended, in part because I am moving on to a new project.  This move will entail harnessing, along with several other colleagues, my years of experience as an academic, activist, blogger, writer, director of public relations and teacher, and bringing that experience to a variety of institutions both domestically and internationally.  I expect to make a formal announcement regarding this project in the next few weeks.  Please do stay tuned.

I also need to take this time to express how much I enjoyed my work with the students and wider community at the Islamic Center, and how much it remains a deeply important part of my life and my character.  It is very rare I think that we find a place which we can call home, which allows us to better see into ourselves and to also better realize what we are capable of accomplishing.  Too often we live and express an Islam that, if it does not move us forward, leaves us content to stand still.  That is good in prayer, but not in aspiration.  I owe a lot of that growth and appreciation to Imam Latif.  I owe a lot of that also to the unique environment and welcoming attitude that has characterized this community, I hope, for many years, and will God willing continue to do so for years into the future.  Please keep myself in this community, and all those who wish to work to better ourselves and the world, in your prayers.  We sorely need them.

Comments

[SulaymanF]

I feel saddened by this. You've always been one of the more articulate speakers whenever we had a TV interview. I had always expected that you'd stick around until we got the new building.

However, best wishes in your new endeavor! Your work towards helping the Ummah has always been much appreciated. I know that insha'Allah you'll do something that will make us all proud.

[Abu Najda]

Bismillah. May Allah bless accept your efforts to date with abundant reward and accept your future efforts for his sake. Dear brother - I feel I have come to know you first through accidentally finding and adding the ICNYU khutbah podcasts, your articles in the lamented Islamica magazine and your blog. It's unfortunate that I have never had an opporunity to meet you in person - but if you are ever in the UK - make sure we all know (via the blog).

Brother - never be surprised about the reach a good person has in this world. I have learnt a lot from you and your knutbahs - much of which I have used when I have delivered by own. You are an inspiration. Truly your reward will be with Allah swt. ws Husman.

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