Center for Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Chicago

As a result, this Area Center covers some of the most important and controversial regions - including North Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia.

The University of Chicago did not form its center until 1965, well after the administration of funding was moved to the US Department of Education by President John F. Kennedy.

This area center consistently ranks in the highest tier of those dealing with Middle Eastern studies in the United States according to US Department of Education and external reviews.

The primary function of the Center is to stimulate and coordinate research and teaching about the Middle East region across the University, regardless of discipline.

This is accomplished informally in the social atmosphere of the Fazlur Rahman Common Room and in formal settings, such as the Center's lectures, conferences, symposia, and panel discussions.