Dear American University Community,

As I transition into my role as AU’s 16th president, I am excited to roll up my sleeves and start working with you! I also want to thank all of you in advance for your support, encouragement, and grace. There is much important work to be done, and I am confident that there is much we can accomplish together. Already I have been inspired and energized by the positive spirit, work ethic, and commitment I have seen throughout the AU community.

I want to congratulate President Sylvia Burwell on her strong and transformational impact over the past seven years. I have deeply appreciated her support and her generosity with her time and expertise as we’ve worked to prepare for a seamless transition. Many other members of the AU leadership team also have lent their time and perspectives as we prepare for this next exciting chapter in American University’s history.

After embarking on a previously planned family trip and completing the move to Washington, DC, my wife Mary Ann and I look forward to meeting you later this month and throughout the rest of the summer. One of my early priorities is an active listening tour to hear your American dreams for the future. I look forward to hearing your perspectives on such questions as: What makes American University distinctive and unique, and how can we build on those strengths and attributes? How can we build our capacity and resources to address the big challenges facing higher education and the world in the twenty-first century? How can we take this institution to even greater heights, and how can we serve our students, community, and nation even better?

I look forward to seeing all of you soon. In the meantime, I hope you have a rejuvenating summer season.

Once an Eagle, always an Eagle!

With warm regards,

Jonathan R. Alger
President, American University