The university also will unveil one of its newest pieces of artwork, “Omar Khayyám,” by internationally noted Iranian sculptor Professor Hossein Fakhimi. Khayyam was a philosopher and poet of the Islamic Golden Age. He was considered to be one of the most influential scientists of the Middle Ages. It is believed by scholars that he wrote almost 1,000 four-line verses or rubaiyat, which have been translated into more than a dozen languages. In Persian speaking countries, Khayyam has had an impact on literature and societies through the translation of his works and popularization by other scholars. His contribution as a philosopher and scientist have had significant value in furthering the frontiers of human knowledge. Born in 1048 A.D. in Nishapur he taught philosophy of Avicenna. He died in 1131 A.D. and is buried in the Khayyám Garden in Nishapur.

Speakers at the event will include OU President David L. Boren; Suzette Grillot, Dean of the College of International Studies; Mehdi Faridzadeh, President of the International Society for Iranian Culture; Simin Curtis, President of the American Middle East Institute; OU alumni Jalal Farzaneh and Mohammad Farzaneh, founders of Home Creations; and OU student Libby Ennenga.

Media parking is available in the lot at the corner of Elm Avenue and Brooks Street.

For more information, or accommodations on the basis of disability, please contact the College of International Studies at (405) 325-1913 or email cisevents@ou.edu.