The mission of the university center is to provide a welcoming environment for AU students, faculty, staff, alumni, and visitors and to support programs, activities and services that promote community, individual growth, responsible citizenship, and a
global perspective.

Role of the University Center

*The Center is the community meeting point of the university, for all members of the university family-- students, faculty, administration, alumni, and guests. It is not just a building; it is also an organization and a program. Together they represent a well - considered plan for the community life of the university.

*As the "town square" of the university, the Center provides for the services, conveniences, and amenities the members of the university family need in their daily life on campus. It is a place to meet people and get to know and understand one another through informal association outside the classroom.

*Through its services and program offerings, the Center is part of the educational program of the university.

As the center of university community life, it serves as a laboratory of citizenship, training students in social responsibility and for leadership in our democracy.

Through various boards, committees, and staff it provides a cultural, social, and recreational program, aiming to make free time activities a cooperative factor with study in education.

In all its processes it encourages self-directed activity, giving maximum opportunity for self-realization and for growth in individual social competency and group effectiveness. Its goal is the development of person as well as intellects.

*The Center serves as a unifying force in the life of the university, cultivating enduring regard for and loyalty to the university.

A statement of purpose, adopted by the Association of College Unions International in 1956 and reaffirmed in 1964 and 1989 has been adapted to fit the American University community