I am always inspired by the commitment and hard work of our community. Staff Appreciation Week was no exception. From fascinating talks and conversations to fun-filled happy hours and celebrations on the quad, I enjoyed and was motivated by seeing our community come together to celebrate the team that keeps this university running.

It has been quite the year for AU thanks to your hard work and that of your colleagues. We completed a successful spring commencement for more than 2,300 students and about 17,000 guests. We’ve marked a year in our Plan for Inclusive Excellence. We’ve launched our new five-year strategic plan and promptly adjusted our fiscal year to align with other institutions and respond to feedback you provided across campus. We’ve kept up the progress to make our campus sustainable and maintain our achievement as the first university in the United States to become carbon neutral. Collectively, we have made some incredible strides, and I have heard many of the stories of individual achievements and progress as well.

As a small token of appreciation, we have decided that American University will close on July 5. I hope you enjoy a well-earned vacation, with time to reflect on all you’ve accomplished this year, to visit with family or friends, or just to enjoy some great July 4 leftovers.

Thank you for all you do every day to make AU a great place to learn, study, and work.