"Given the challenges facing higher education, our nation, and our world, I think there is no better time for American University to assert its considerable strengths, to lead and convene thought leaders, and take on the world's thorniest problems. I welcome the opportunity to help AU expand its scholarly influence, enhance the student experience, and be a model for inclusion and innovation at a time when these ideals are vitally important."
-Sylvia M. Burwell
15th President, American University
Welcome to American University!
In January 2017, I was honored to be named as the 15th President and become part of the AU community. I officially began this role on June 1. I have received a warm welcome from all corners of campus, the national capital region, from across the country and world—which strongly emphasizes how this is an incredibly vibrant university with a distinctive mix of academic strengths, influential scholars, engaged students, successful alumni, and an extraordinary location.
AU’s trajectory over the last decade enables us to think in bold and ambitious ways. We are well positioned to promote learning, inform debate through scholarship and research, contribute to our community, and lead.
I invite you to review our website and become better acquainted with AU’s academic strengths, leadership team, campus news, creative initiatives, and tradition of service. We will continue to update the site over the coming months, and I hope that you will check back often.
I am excited to join the AU family, be part of the team, and help write the next chapter for this distinctive university. Feel free to contact me with questions or comments at president@american.edu.
Sylvia M. Burwell
President, American University
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