Dear AU Community,

We continue to process last week’s situation at the radio tower. I want to add my thanks to our AUPD team and the DC emergency responders who worked tirelessly for three straight days to address a difficult and complex situation. While the outcome was tragic, the dedication to safety and professionalism throughout the response was exemplary.

As we conduct after-action reviews, we also continue the business of our university. Summer is upon us, and it is an important time to rest and recharge. After an academic year of highlights––including achieving R1 status, winning the Patriot League men’s basketball championship, and honoring the historic gift to name the Baker School of Education––and a period where we faced new challenges in the federal policy environment and shifting dynamics in higher education, summer breaks are a welcome opportunity to celebrate our achievements and pause for a moment from the fast-paced world we are navigating together.

There are two upcoming summer holidays that I hope will provide you with fulfilling moments of reflection, connection with friends and family, and enjoyment of your favorite activities. First, as a reminder, AU will be closed on Thursday, June 19, in commemoration of Juneteenth, a federal holiday officially established in June 2021. Juneteenth is an important celebration of inclusivity and a reminder of why our commitment to inclusive excellence is so vital.

As an added break for our teams and in thanks for your dedicated work throughout the year, the university will close on Thursday, July 3 to provide an extended weekend for the July 4th holiday.

For our team members who work those days in support of core campus operations, thank you. Your manager will work with you to identify alternatives to ensure you have the opportunity to take corresponding time off.

Thank you again for your continued commitment to AU and our work. I hope you have a wonderful summer.

Sincerely,

Jonathan R. Alger
President, American University