A native of Egypt and an Arabic language specialist at The University of Alabama, Ms. Nehad Shawky made a presentation describing the hajj, or pilgrimage, as part of the Islamic faith. She explained the meaning of the hajj to Muslims and its importance as a pillar of Islam. She described what is necessary to prepare for the pilgrimage, and what events take place during the hajj itself. Ms. Shawky was embarking on her first pilgrimage in one week's time after her presentation.