At American University, we step up, we show up, and we say Challenge Accepted.

On April 19, the university unveiled a bold, new narrative that reflects our community’s engagement, passion, and commitment to tackling the world’s most complex challenges, from slowing climate change to combating violent extremism to navigating a post-COVID world.

“As changemakers, we boldly leverage the power and purpose of community to make a greater impact in our changing world. Challenge Accepted tells the stories of AU: from being the nation’s first carbon neutral university to scholarship that advances civil discourse and democracy to our deep partnership with our Washington, DC, community,” says President Sylvia Burwell.

“Momentum can be seen and felt across American University and this campaign underscores our strengths as well as areas where we are growing,” she continues. “Whether that is our commitment to inclusive excellence, our brand new Hall of Science, or our recognition by US News and World Report as one of the most innovative universities, Challenge Accepted is part of our DNA.”

Inspired by our strategic plan, Changemakers for a Changing World, the brand blends AU’s signature red and blue to create a vibrant purple that symbolizes the need for common ground and a vision for united solutions to issues confronting America and the world.