American University is home to a variety of traditions—some trace back to the university's founding over a century ago, while others are new practices crated by students in recent years. Discover AU's traditions below!

Sprit of Change Week

Spirit of Change (formerly Founders Week) has been a long withstanding tradition at AU dating back to 1931, when students first staged a pageant to honor the university’s intellectual architects. Hosted in February commemorating AUs founding in 1893 by Congress, the week highlights student organization programming, athletic events, and includes a signature program, which in the past has included a ball, a keynote speaker, and a partnership with AU archives to create an exhibit about AU’s history. The week is planned by the student-led Spirit & Traditions Board and includes collaboration with various offices, including the Center for Student Involvement, Alumni, Athletics, and the Special Events Office.

Student Involvement Fair

A beloved American University tradition, the Student Involvement Fair, organized by the Center for Student Involvement, unfolds on the quad during the initial week of classes each academic year. This event serves as a vibrant showcase for AU's extensive array of clubs and registered student organizations, numbering over 200. Covering an impressive spectrum that includes sports, politics, culture, and much more, the fair provides students with a valuable opportunity to explore and engage with the diverse clubs on campus. Since its inception in 2000, this tradition has been instrumental in launching the involvement journeys of hundreds of AU students, helping them discover and join organizations that resonate with their interests and passions.

AmFest

AmFest, an eagerly anticipated tradition at American University, first took flight in 2016, inspired by the spirit of Coachella-style festivals. Organized by the dedicated Student Union Board, part of the Student Activity Council, this annual arts and music extravaganza has since become an integral part of the AU experience. Held every April, AmFest not only celebrates the rich cultural tapestry of our AU community but also serves as a platform to showcase local D.C. artists alongside national talents. The event, spanning an entire day during the Spring semester, features an eclectic lineup of musicians, delicious food, merchandise, games, vendors, and more. It offers students the opportunity to revel in live performances by their peers, including the winners from the American Idol AU competition, who earn the coveted chance to open for AmFest. With its lively atmosphere and an array of free activities scattered throughout the Quad, AmFest embodies the true essence of AU's vibrant and inclusive campus life.

Family Weekend 

Family Weekend, an occasion to strengthen your connection with AU students, discover our campus, and delve into the diverse offerings of Washington, D.C. Taking place every October, Family Weekend unites AU undergraduate and graduate students with their families and friends for an array of engaging activities, shedding light on the campus experience. The program includes academic introductions, informative sessions, enlightening campus tours and various other engaging events. Additionally, students and their families may use this time to explore the nation's capital together. Family Weekend provides families with a valuable opportunity to visit their students and gain insight into their AU journey. With a flexible schedule, families can tailor their weekend to participate in events that pique their interest, ensuring a personalized and memorable visit, and create memories that students won’t soon forget.

Late Night Breakfast

A long-standing tradition at American University, this event has been bringing students together since the early 2000s. It involves a special treat - breakfast for dinner! Co-hosted by the Center for Student Involvement and AU Dining, Late-Night Breakfast offers AU students a chance to savor their breakfast favorites in the evening. Students also enjoy arts and crafts, along with other fun activities like karaoke and a photobooth. It's a delightful way to kick off Welcome Week, providing a memorable start to the academic year and fostering a sense of community among our students.

The Quad Scream

A time-honored AU tradition, The Quad Scream, jointly hosted by the Spirit & Traditions Board, AU Student Government, and the Residence Hall Association, unfolds on the Quad each year on the eve of finals week. As the clock approaches midnight, anticipation builds. Then, precisely at 11:59 PM, a resounding, one-minute primal scream reverberates throughout American University. This collective battle cry serves as a powerful symbol of unity, resilience, and determination as students brace themselves to face and triumph over the challenges of finals week.

Acapalooza

Acapalooza, an AU tradition, is an exhilarating evening of musical harmony and collaboration. Every spring semester, all of AU's talented a cappella groups, as well as a select few from nearby schools, come together to deliver remarkable performances that leave the audience in awe. This highly anticipated event is known for its electrifying atmosphere, and it's no surprise that it's standing room only year after year.

CultureFest

Culturefest, a BIPOC celebration, has been an AU tradition since 2017. Created by the Welcome Week Programming Subcommittee, their focus was to create an engaging and community building event for students of color. Each year 20-30 cultural organizations table on the Quad, while various activities are also taking place. Music, cultural food, games, and activity stations have all been a part of this event which takes place during All American Welcome and is hosted by the Center for Student Involvement.

Veloric Concert

Thanks to the incredible generosity of AU's very own Kogod School of Business alum, Gary Veloric, and his family, AU launched the Veloric concert in Fall 2023, featuring Flo Rida and Hayes Warner during Family Weekend. A key highlight of this new AU tradition in Bender Area, it brings families, students, and alums together for a night of music, fostering school spirit and creating memorable experiences for the AU community. The Veloric concert happens in October of each year.

Jazz in the Garden

Looking to expose AU students to local DC bands and history, Jazz in the Gardens began in 2018. This casual, come and go event is hosted by the Center for Student Involvement during All American Welcome and creates a fun a welcoming evening that students and families can enjoy. DuPont Brass, a DMV soulful brass ensemble, has been a fan favorite for years.
 

First Year Convocation Pin 

The convocation pin serves as a symbol of unity, pride, and shared experiences, creating a sense of belonging and connection among new students. This tradition not only fosters a strong bond within the incoming class but also creates a lasting connection with the institution, as students continue to wear the pin throughout their college journey and beyond. Given to each new Eagle at convocation, the Convocation Pin features the AU lodestar inside a cherry blossom. The design was created by the Spirit & Traditions Board. The convocation pin is a tangible reminder of students’ induction into the university community, creating a lasting legacy for future generations of students.