The selection of Cornelius Kerwin as the newly installed president of American University in Washington, D. C. was a superb choice.  Kerwin has historical and enduring ties to the university as an alumnus, a faculty member, former Dean of the School of Public Affairs, former Provost, and Acting President, prior to his current appointment.  If anyone knows A.U. inside and out, it is Kerwin.  His dedication and commitment to the university has been demonstrated repeatedly throughout his involvement with the institution.

As an alumnus with two degrees from the A.U., I had the pleasure and privilege to work with President Kerwin when he was Dean of the School of Public Affairs.  In addition to his regular duties at the time, he took on the added responsibility of leading an alumni committee that was actively involved in the university setting.  I worked with him closely as chairperson of one of the subcommittees.  Kerwin’s keen intellect, his devotion to students, his collaborative efforts with other sectors of the university, as well as the community, and his unrelenting desire to continually make A.U. an even better school than it is became immediately apparent.  His enthusiasm is contagious, and Kerwin has continuously fueled the motivation of alumni to work together and join him in enhancing both alumni and student relations.  My own continuing enthusiasm and ongoing professional dedication is fueled by the spirit of this leader whose vision is boundless and whose efforts are tireless. 

My days at American are memorable.  I obtained an outstanding education that equipped me with a valid perspective of the “real world” combined with the necessary knowledge to prepare me for my career path.  Having earned a Master’s degree in The Administration of Justice, I now have worked in my chosen field for the past 29 years.  I have had a rewarding career with experiences that I likely would have never had otherwise.  I quickly discovered that a degree from A.U. was significant, and employers immediately recognized its importance.

According to a U. S. and News World Report, the Department of Justice, Law and Society ranks number three in the country and the School of Public Affairs, where it is housed, ranks in the top ten.  A.U. was an outstanding school when I was there, but these statistics only serve to enhance the fact that it has, over time, become an even more prestigious institution.  With outstanding faculty from all walks of life and with the advent of many more programs in place than when I attended, American University has become a preeminent institution in the nation’s capitol and in the country.  Moreover, there could be no better person, other than President Kerwin, to lead this university.

“American University is a strong, influential, and confident institution.  We are proud of our past, proud of what we are today, but restless and aware that we have not yet reached the full measure of our potential,” says President Kerwin.  He continues, “We will be a presence on the national stage, providing ideas, insights, and leaders to influence how America develops and shares its strength with the world.  We will continue to function as a premier, global university, bringing the world to A.U. and A.U. to the world.”  

While attending a holiday party at the university’s Katzen Arts Center on December 13, 2007, I had the opportunity and pleasure to see President Kerwin again and personally congratulate him on his new position.  I thanked him for all he has done and continues to do.  With his ardent determination and insightful vision, it is certain he will confront challenges and forge new paths that will enable the university to soar with limitless possibilities and pride itself on being one of the best universities in the country.