You are here: American University Provost Communications March 22, 2023

American University Office of the Provost

MemorandumMarch 22, 2023

To:
AU Community
From:
Peter Starr, Provost and Chief Academic Officer
Monica C. Jackson, Deputy Provost and Dean of Faculty
Beth Muha, Assistant Vice President, Human Resources
Rev. Bryant M. Oskvig, University Chaplain
Subject:
Upcoming Religious and Cultural Observances

We make American University a place of belonging for all, in part, by allowing for the observance of the holidays and significant days of the religious and cultural traditions represented within our community.  

Throughout the remainder of the semester, many of our students, faculty, and staff will observe holidays that may include fasting and/or cessation of regular activities, particularly the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. These observances could impact a community member’s ability to attend class, report to work, participate in events, or complete assignments on certain dates. 

We encourage you to review the list of the religious and cultural holidays that AU community members are more likely to observe and for which they may require accommodation. Additional details for students observing religious and/or cultural holidays are provided on the Kay Spiritual Life Center website, including a list of resources for Ramadan. Further information for faculty and staff is found in the Procedure for Employees Requesting Religious Accommodations

Students may contact the Office of the University Chaplain at kslc@american.edu with any questions, while faculty and staff should be in touch with HR employee relations at employeerelations@american.edu.

Thank you for your thoughtful care and attention to the religious and spiritual needs of our wider community.