Dear Alumni, 

The year is off to a packed start, and there is much to recap and look ahead to for our AU community. In the days following last week’s Walk for Peace stop at AU, I’ve found myself returning to timely wisdom shared by the Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara: “The power of togetherness can change everything.” 

It was an honor to close out January with our annual AU Alumni Board Dinner and Ceremony where—unthwarted by the snow and chilly temperatures—we welcomed our newest members and recognized those completing their board terms. What cannot be understated from the evening is that volunteer leadership is a powerful force at AU. 

It’s a theme embedded by design into the university’s new strategic plan, Meet Our Moment: American University’s Pledge to Our Students and Our World. The plan was developed with extensive alumni input, and among its innovative pledges—including the AU Ready Pledge to provide all undergraduates with $4,500 for experiential learning and the AU90 expedited degree schedule—is one called Mentors Matter.  

Through Mentors Matter, every sophomore and transfer student will have the opportunity to pair with an alumni mentor, and mentorship will also be extended to graduate and law students. AU is in the process of building the mentor network of alumni to support the program, so stay tuned for more updates about how to participate.  

 Next up this month is AU Giving Day on February 25–26. While I usually avoid hyperbole, this truly is the most impactful 36 hours of our academic year. Few traditions better illustrate the power of our collective action, and I'm always inspired by the tenacity, heart, and generosity of my fellow alumni. I encourage you to support the causes that hit close to home. And keep a close watch on your inbox and AU’s social media channels for “match challenges” that can double your impact. One feature new this year? Become an Advocate and share your personalized giving link with others! 

And that’s not all for February. Save your spot at All Alumni Day on Saturday, February 28 to cheer on AU Men’s Basketball as they face Boston University. Special celebrations for Black History Month and Senior Day will fuel community energy. Your ticket includes access to a catered pregame reception and an exclusive AU giveaway. (Hint: get ready to wave it in the air!) 

For those of you outside the DC area, I encourage you to join one of the many watch parties taking place across the country. It is inspiring to see our alumni hosting gatherings in Boston, Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Francisco, Seattle, and South Florida. These events are a testament to the reach and strength of our community, no matter the distance. 

In togetherness,  

Patty Caballero, SOC/BA ’91, Kogod/MBA ’00