Over the six years he’s worked at American University, Donte Moore has told his two kids more about campus than he’s been able to show them.

“But they always want to come here,” said the assistant director of housing operations.

On April 25—National Take Your Child to Work Day—Moore’s 9-year-old son, Kayson, finally got his chance.

Kayson said it was exciting to tour AU Arboretum and Gardens, learn about water safety at the Jacobs Fitness Center pool, and explore other parts of campus with chaperones instead of going to Mount Vernon Woods Elementary School.

“I got to see the library,” the fourth grader said while snacking on pepperoni pizza at lunch in the Butler Board Room. “That was cool.”

Take Your Child to Work Day gave about 55 children of AU staff and faculty between age 8 and 18 a better understanding of what their parents do all day. Sponsored by the Office of Human Resources, the fourth in-person celebration gave Eaglets a window into what goes on around a college campus on a typical day.

“The highlight is showing kids what American University is and giving them an opportunity to see what’s next,” said Andie Rowe, director of employee wellness and work-life. “We get to showcase the university and they can see in action what parents and other people do here.”

Amid the bustle of classes and prospective student tours, youngsters in Minecraft T-shirts, rainbow shoes, and AU gear excitedly bounded along the sidewalks, learned about 3D printers in the basement of Bender Library, and participated in craft activities.

Participants also took a photo with Clawed Z. Eagle, saw some of their Earth Day artwork displayed at the AU Museum, and each received an honorary diploma. In the afternoon, some kids shadowed their parents, while others toured WAMU 88.5.

Christine Gettings, director of international programs and partnerships in the School of International Service, brought her son, Jack, to learn about her job and the parts of campus he'd never seen before. After a full day, he reported “working in an office is more tiring than running around for sports.” 

“My colleagues did a fabulous job with the programs for the kids,” Gettings wrote on Facebook. “Thanks to my fellow AU staff members for planning this event and for those of you who made Jack feel welcome. He had a blast.”

Tia Milledge’s daughter, Fiona, said seeing the fishpond was a highlight of her day. She also enjoyed painting rocks and took a walk around campus with her mom, director of communications and outreach in the School of Communication.

So, after an exciting day on campus, what’s her understanding of what her mom does at AU all day?

“I know that she’s like the head of her office area,” the Rock Creek Forest Elementary School fifth grader said. “But not like the head head.”