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Join the Parent Leadership Council

American University students are the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and engaged citizens. They are curious and driven, gaining a world-class education from forward-thinking faculty in the classroom, and obtaining real-world experience in the nation's capital. From Convocation to Commencement, parents play a critical role in a student's success.

The Parent Leadership Council recognizes parent leaders and engages them in the life of the university. Members are dedicated to strengthening the sense of community among fellow AU families, while furthering the the university’s mission and President Burwell’s 5-year strategic plan Changemakers for a Changing World through volunteerism and philanthropic leadership.

The Parent Leadership Council aims to create and grow a leadership community among parents of current and graduated students. Parent Leadership Council members help bring even greater distinction to the university and increase AU's forward momentum by serving as partners, investors, and advocates.

The Parent Leadership Council depends on peer-to-peer outreach to increase parent volunteer participation and help achieve annual fundraising goals. Through membership in either the Executive Council or the Parent Partners Network, parents enrich the overall AU student experience.

The Executive Council comprises philanthropic leaders and volunteers committed to furthering the university's vision and mission by giving and soliciting leadership-level gifts. Members serve a one-year, renewable term. Executive Council member responsibilities include:

  • Make an annual leadership gift of $10,000 to American University
  • Act as an advocate for AU by promoting the university's most pressing priorities
  • Invite others to join the Executive Council
  • Serve as a host for events
  • Participate in monthly virtual meetings designed to deepen understanding of AU’s mission and vision
  • Help the university attract the best and brightest incoming class each year by working with the Alumni Admission Volunteers program

The Parent Partners Network is a group of dedicated volunteers committed to advancing the university's vision and mission by promoting AU's programs and achievements. Members serve a one-year, renewable term. Parent Partner Network member responsibilities include:
 

  • Make a leadership gift of $2,500 or more that is commensurate with your philanthropic capacity and passion for American University
  • Act as an advocate for AU by promoting the university's most pressing priorities
  • Invite others to join the Parent Partners Network
  • Attend AU events and extending invitations to other parents
  • Make personal calls to welcome new families
  • Participate in monthly virtual meetings designed to deepen understanding of AU’s mission and vision
  • Help the university attract the best and brightest incoming class each year by working with the Alumni Admission Volunteers program

The Parent Leadership Council is dedicated to building a strong relationship between parents and the university, and cultivates a positive experience for all families. The Council ensures AU's future success by enhancing parent giving to support the expansion of facilities, scholarship funds, and special program initiatives. In appreciation of dedicated Parent Leadership Council members, the university offers:

  • Opportunities to network with a diverse and engaging group of fellow parents
  • Special communications from and access to a personal university liaison whom you may consult with on all parent-related matters
  • Invitations to special Parent Leadership Council and university-wide events, including concierge service during Commencement
  • Donor recognition as a member of American University’s President’s Circle. Donors whose cumulative giving totals $100,000 or more are recognized as Lifetime Members of the President's Circle
Parent Leadership Council with the Burwells

Get Involved

To join the Parent Leadership Council or learn more about ways to become involved as an AU parent, contact Megan Olson, director of development, Parent and Family Philanthropy, at 202-885-5905 or molson@american.edu.

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Volunteer

You are an integral part of the AU community as well as an important touchstone in your student’s life. We invite you to get involved in and learn about the unique academic community that is AU. Our parent volunteers help with admissions, career connections for students, and serve as champions of the university.

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Give

Any gift of any size to the Parent Fund can make all the difference. Your gift can support the fund that inspires you the most - emergency student aid, scholarships, research, performances or upgrading our campus.

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