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SPA is turning 90!

2024 marks the 90th anniversary for the School of Public Affairs. Read below for a look back at our 90 year history.

Contact Us

Phone: (202) 885-2940

Graduate programs: spagrad@american.edu

Undergraduate programs: aupublicaffairs@american.edu

Kerwin Hall on a map

Public Affairs, School of 4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW Washington, DC 20016 United States

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Celebrating 9 Decades of SPA 1934-2024

For the past nine decades, American University’s School of Public Affairs has been a leader in public affairs education. Learn more about how we have used key moments in our history to influence the evolution of public management, public policy, urban and environmental policy through public-private partnerships, top-ranked faculty, and groundbreaking research. Through 90 years and counting, we make every moment count.
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Celebrate your Milestones with SPA

SPA is celebrating a milestone this year! Get in touch and share your milestones as well.
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Join SPA's Celebration in Fall 2024!

Come and join us for an evening celebrating 90 years of SPA in September 2024. Visit this page for more information as we get closer to the date.


Alumni Spotlights

"My SPA experience was about so much more than the degree. It was a time of reflection on my values and understanding of world issues. SPA provided a renewed sense of citizenship and outlook of my role in shaping my community."

"I loved my time at SPA! I grew so much personally and professionally and built relationships that will last a lifetime. I left prepared for a career in the federal government."

SPA Memories

A video collage of SPA memories.

SPA Memories

A video collage of SPA memories.