Here's a photo recap of some of the moments that shaped #AUSOC's year. From the classroom to community events, special guests, and activities, this year was filled with learning and unforgettable moments. We hope you enjoyed the year as much as we did ✨
One of the School of Communication’s top opportunities 🌟
The Dean’s Internship Program gives outstanding SOC students the chance to earn professional recognition for their work across media industries. This past fall, Thea Duc (SOC / BA ’25), a Public Relations and Strategic Communications major, received the honor for her work as an event intern at Stratus Firm.
➡️ Interested in launching your career while studying? Stay tuned for more details on the Spring Dean’s Internship application!
For Christina Alemayehu (SOC/MA ‘25), pursuing her online MA in Strategic Communication is about more than just a degree—it’s about living out a purpose-driven life that fuses communication strategy with community and faith.
As a leader in the Global Youth Mission Movement, Christina mentors East African diaspora youth, organizes mission trips to Ethiopia, and builds spaces for spiritual growth. At SOC, she’s found the tools to amplify her impact through strategic storytelling, branding, and advocacy.
📖 From launching campaigns to publishing her first book, Christina is living proof that purpose and profession can work hand-in-hand.
🔗 link in bio to learn more!
#AUSOC #StrategicCommunication #FaithAndLeadership #PurposeDriven #StudentSpotlight #GradSchoolJourney
We recently honored Professors Rhonda Zaharna, Maggie Stogner, Jane Hall, Lynne Perri, and Jill Olmsted—our retiring #AUSOC faculty members—for their incredible dedication and lasting impact on our community. Thank you for inspiring students, sharing your knowledge, and shaping the next generation of #mediachangemakers. Wishing you all the best as you embark on your next adventure! ✨
What does an internship in sports PR look like? 2026 graduate Lauren Gersten spent her final semester at SOC interning in corporate communications at Monumental Sports & Entertainment - supporting the Washington Wizards, Washington Capitals, and Washington Mystics while gaining event experience at Capital One Arena + EagleBank Arena. One highlight was a visit from the Harlem Globetrotters’ as part of their 100 Year Tour.
Swipe to see more 👉
Reflecting on an incredible spring semester at #AUSOC! From inspiring panels and student gatherings to networking events, we’ve experienced tremendous growth and connection. Thank you to everyone who helped make our community stronger and more vibrant. Here’s to more opportunities, learning, and fun ahead! ✨
➡️ What was your favorite moment this semester?
It was so nice to celebrate retiring @ausoc@americanuniversity colleagues last week as they retire. So many former colleagues returned to thank them for all that they brought to our school
🎉 More 2026 #AUSOC Commencement Memories! We have not stopped smiling yet. 🤩
🎓 Congratulations to all the newly minted @AmericanUAlum who crossed the stage this past weekend! 😄
🦅 To get you in the mood for the ceremonies tomorrow: A flashback to the #AUSOC Spring 2025 Commencement. 🎓 Can't wait to hear those bagpipes tomorrow!
👉 Don't forget to come to McKinley after the ceremony for the reception! We want to celebrate with you!! 🎉
🎉🎉 Congratulations to the AU Speaks Up award winners!
🗣️ AU’s first speech competition, organized by SOC and @cmsimpact , brought together students, professors, and family members to hear seven inspiring finalists share what “We The People” means to them. Congratulations to Demar Goodman (1st place), Samuel Stiles Williams (2nd place), and Anja Herrman (3rd place), and kudos to all finalists—Gavin O’Malley, Brianna Creegan, Nasaiah Algerin, and Sasha Dafkova—for their powerful speeches! ✨ #AUSOC
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