All for One and One for All

“Small gifts produce big results”— that’s a familiar appeal when universities reach out to their alumni for financial support. If anyone doubts its truth, then all they need do is consider the Alumni Scholarship at American University. Funded annually by proceeds from the Alumni Audit program - a special arrangement that allows AU graduates to audit classes at the university for $100 per course.

This current recipient of the Alumni Scholarship is Mark Stern, a rising junior from Montgomery, Ala., majoring in public communication. Personifying the mission of American University, Stern has made social responsibility and personal engagement core values in his effort to transform the world around him. “Giving back to the community is so important; it’s really a gift to be able to give,” says Stern. “One of the many aspects I’ve enjoyed about being at AU is the fact that the university provides so many opportunities to become involved.” A student with both high academic credentials and a commitment to public service, Stern found AU to be a perfect fit.

“I’d been to AU for a national student leadership conference and really liked the experience,” says Stern. “I also knew quite a lot about the university because my sister went here, and she’s a great role model. When I visited the university during my college search, I was impressed by how people went to any length to answer my questions and make me feel at home. Receiving the alumni scholarship was truly a gift—an added bonus that affirmed my decision to attend American University.”

The alumni association started this scholarship in 1971 as a way to encourage legacy students to attend American University, explains Laura Swanstrom Reece, assistant director of alumni programs. To be eligible for the scholarship, candidates must be related to an AU graduate, have a record of academic excellence, and have participated in leadership and community service activities.  In 2003, 178 alumni registered to audit classes, bringing $13,350 into the scholarship fund, which carries a balance of more than $100,000.

 “The Alumni Audit program is a great way for alumni to continue their own education while helping new generations of students pursue their degrees,” says Reece. “When our graduates learn that their audit fees support a scholarship fund, they’re extremely pleased.”

Stern currently serves as president of the class of 2007. He has worked with AU’s Ambassador’s program, giving tours of the university to prospective students and visitors. “I had a great freshman year,” says Stern. “The openness and willingness of people at all levels to help students lets me know that AU is truly a university that cares—and that’s a story I’m eager to share with everyone. It’s both overwhelming and humbling to think that, through the Alumni Scholarship, so many people have a stake in my education.”