Dear Colleagues, 

As many of you know, Vin Harkins will conclude his successful career at American University at the end of January after serving as Assistant Vice President of Facilities Management for nearly 14 years. During his tenure, Vin has made significant contributions in the university’s sustainability and environmental initiatives, spearheading the fulfillment of our ambitious carbon neutrality goal two years ahead of schedule and reducing the university's carbon footprint by 50%. He expanded the Zero Waste program, including self-hauling, composting, and e-waste disposal, further establishing AU as a leader in sustainability. 

Vin has overseen critical infrastructure upgrades, including the replacement of the heating and distribution systems as well as significant improvements to the domestic water network and fire and life safety system performance. He also managed fleet upgrades including multiple new vehicles and the replacement of aging equipment in Vehicle Maintenance. His commitment to the Arboretum and campus grounds has earned AU multiple awards. These efforts have ensured that the university maintains its Tree Campus USA recognition for 15 consecutive years and upholds its Arboretum Level II certification. Vin's contributions have significantly enriched the AU community, making the campus a more sustainable, safe, and beautiful place for all. 

In preparation for this transition, I am appointing Jonathan McCann, our Assistant Vice President of Planning & Project Management, to oversee Facilities Management in an interim role following Vin’s departure. When we return in January, Jonathan will shadow Vin as I work closely with the OFT leadership team to assess our overall divisional structure. As part of that process, I expect to update the existing job description for the Assistant Vice President of Facilities Management. Once completed, I anticipate that we will begin the search for the next leader of Facilities Management by mid-spring, with the goal of filling the position by the end of the spring semester. 

Please join me in wishing Vin well and welcoming Jonathan into his expanded role during this time of transition. 

Onward, 

Bronté Burleigh-Jones 
CFO, Vice President, and Treasurer