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Welcome AU Parents and Families

We know that parents and families are important partners on a student's academic journey. We're dedicated to keeping you informed and helping you find the answers and guidance you're looking for from your student's acceptance to their graduation and everything in between. 

To help you on this journey, we provide a single point of contact for parents and families. If you need assistance navigating AU's many offices, please reach out to our Parent and Family Engagement team at eaglefamilies@american.edu.  

The Nest Network For American University Parents

Nest Network Volunteers

The Nest Network is a network of AU parents and families designed to foster community, enhance engagement, represent the interests of AU families and support student success and the University. Together, we create an environment in which families can connect, discover AU, and contribute to the wellbeing of both students and families in partnership with the New Student and Family Programs team.

First Year and Transfer Families

Parent & Families Orientation 

As we prepare to welcome students to campus, we are equally excited to welcome you too! We invite First Year and Transfer Families to attend an optional Parent & Family Orientation. This program is designed to help you learn more about American University and become more acquainted with the resources and professionals who will partner with you over the next four years to support your Eagle's success!   

During the orientation, you can attend sessions on various topics, including academic success, campus involvement, and safety. You will also hear from current students and alumni. While participation is optional, it's a great opportunity to get to know AU better. Session registration as space permits. 

Date: Sunday, August 18 or Monday, August 19. Choose the day that works best for your schedule or that aligns with your student’s move-in date. (Families moving in on Saturday are welcome to join the Sunday session.)  

Time: 4:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.  

Location: Mary Graydon Center + other campus locations, American University  

Registration details coming soon! 

Soar & Support

Soar & Support is AU’s self-paced Pre-Orientation course for families, designed to introduce you to various resources and strategies to support your new Eagle in flight. Soar & Support is aligned to the Flight Ready! student course.

Did you know that not all birds push their young out of the nest to encourage them to fly? Young Eaglets start their flight training by mimicking what they have watched their parents do for months: spreading their wings! The fledgling experiences the sensation of flight when wind drafts catch its outstretched wings and lift it slightly from the nest. You've prepared them well—now it's time to let them fly! Check out the Canvas tutorial video if you need help navigating the platform.

Come Chat with us Monday to Friday 2 to 4 pm EST

Live Chat

Live chat is available Monday through Friday from 2 pm to 4:30 pm EST. Whether by chat or email, we're happy to speak with you!

Live chat

AU Logo on a blue button with the word "Families" on it.

Families on Facebook

Join the community on Facebook to receive updates about AU and connect with other parents and families!

Follow us on Facebook

Students on the quad

New Student Checklist

Find everything you need to know about getting started at AU on the New Student Checklist.

Checklist

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Family Mailing List

Sign up to receive family newsletters, invitations, campus updates and critical alerts. Our newest Eagle families start receiving these emails mid-summer. 

Sign up

Orientation leaders holding an American University banner

Orientation

Learn all about orientation and prepare to start your journey at American University.

Orientation

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