Multicultural Affairs supports American University’s commitment to inclusion and diversity by serving as a resource center and liaison for addressing the needs of multicultural and first-generation students.  The department's programs acknowledge and address multi-layered topics of identity, including ability, heritage, religious beliefs and practices, socioeconomic status, and sexual orientation and expression. Multicultural Affairs collaborates with campus partners to enhance students' academic and personal growth by encouraging self-awareness, scholarly work, and a lifelong commitment to learning and service.

To achieve this mission, Multicultural Affairs is dedicated to promoting and strengthening:
   o Student retention and graduation rates;
   o Academic achievement;
   o Multicultural first-year and first-generation experiences;
   o Cultural awareness and competency through programming;
   o Leadership and advocacy within the AU campus community.