The CARE Network is comprised of every AU community member and empowers anyone at AU to share concerns about student behaviors. We manage the CARE Network by responding and reaching out to members of the AU community that may need support. 

Every member of the AU Community can access the CARE Network by submitting an online form called a CARE Referral. This CARE Referral is processed by the Office of the Dean of Students and assigned to a DOS representative who then reaches out to the individual to get them connected with resources and support. If you recognize signs of distress or observe disruptive behavior, submit a referral to the CARE Network (also found on the myAU.american.edu portal under the Life@AU tab). The CARE Network is accessible to faculty, staff and students.

Recognizing, Responding to, and Referring Distressed Students

The Dean of Students' Red Folder Initiative is a resource available to faculty and staff at AU to help recognize, respond to, and refer students to appropriate resources. You can download this resources on the Red Folder Initiative page linked above. You can play an important role by identifying students in distress and helping them receive the assistance they need.

Confidentiality

Members of the CARE Team, as administrative agents in an educational institution, adhere to the laws and standards governing the disclosure of information to third parties both within and external to the University. Such information is only disclosed on a need-to-know basis and only according to the relevant statutes that govern such disclosure. Anonymity of reporter cannot be guaranteed as CARE Referrals are considered part of a student's educational record.

The Student Health Center and Center for Well-Being Programs and Psychological Services staff are governed by additional laws and ethical codes regarding the disclosure of medical and psychological records to third parties of clients or patients under their care.