Dear AU Students,  

 

Welcome to the 2025-2026 school year! I’m thrilled to welcome you and have you on campus. The year is already off to an exciting start, with the move-in of over 3700 on-campus students, the completion of our New Student Orientation, and the welcome of the Class of 2029 at the annual Convocation Ceremony with our President Jonathan Alger. Thank you to all the staff and volunteers who made those events possible.

Throughout Orientation, new students learned about AU, met new friends, and explored DC. The past week was a celebration of American University’s values as well as a renewal of our commitment to each other as a campus community, and we look forward to another successful year.

In addition to our traditional events during All-American Welcome Week, we’re excited about the many new initiatives the Division of Student Affairs is launching this year. As part of Thank Clawed It’s Wednesday!, the Farmers Market is expanding with added vendors and activities. New this year is Eagles at Night. For the first 5 weekends of the semester, we’re lighting up the Quad and the Mary Graydon Student Center (MGSC) with games, movies, music, food, and fun activities—all designed to help you meet new friends, build social connections, and make the most of your AU experience!  

 

Part of being in community is recognizing our rights and responsibilities. Please be sure to familiarize yourself with the Student Conduct Code. The Code is designed to support a safe, honest, and inclusive community with a shared commitment to acting with mutual respect and forming the highest standards of ethics and morals among its members.  

 

Additionally, we are all figuring out the evolving federal law enforcement environment in Washington, DC. There are still many unanswered questions, but it is important to note that you may encounter expanded law enforcement activity in different parts of the city, including the presence of National Guard troops. As you explore our wonderful Washington, DC community, please be aware of these unique conditions. Safety is our priority, and we will update the AU community if any further information or actions are necessary. 

 

I wish you a terrific semester filled with engaging conversations, new experiences, and rewarding interactions within our community. Go Eagles! 


Yours,

Raymond Ou 

Vice President Student Affairs 

Division of Student Affairs

 

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