WASHINGTON, D.C. — Jonathan Alger announced plans to step down as president of American University on June 30, 2026, after two years in the role. He will transition to a newly created America 250 fellowship focused on democracy and education, becoming the first person to hold the appointed position through a partnership between the American Council on Education (ACE) and the American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U).
Alger will remain connected to American University as a senior fellow for civic leadership. In a letter to the AU community, he wrote, "Two years ago when I joined AU, we could not have predicted the challenges that emerged to that vital mission." He added, "As I contemplated how best to contribute in this pivotal moment, I was drawn to the opportunity to engage across the entire ecosystem. Building on my decades of frontline leadership, I am excited that my next chapter will help shape the national dialogue on the future of higher education."
The America 250 fellowship aims to strengthen civic learning and democratic engagement across higher education through meetings, programming, and collaborative initiatives, according to a joint news release from ACE and AAC&U. Alger described the role as one created "to advance the role of colleges and universities in strengthening democratic institutions, civic learning, and informed citizenship as our nation commemorates its 250th anniversary while looking toward the future and the ongoing work of pursuing a 'more perfect union.'"
During his tenure at American University, which began in 2024, Alger founded the Civic Life Initiative and emphasized integrating civic skills across the curriculum. "We are incorporating civic learning and civic skills across the curriculum and are part of national efforts to model how all students can learn to engage constructively across differences," he wrote.
Before joining American University in 2024, Alger served 12 years as president of James Madison University in Harrisonburg, Virginia. At both institutions, he prioritized civic engagement as a core component of higher education.
Ted Mitchell, president of the American Council on Education, praised Alger in a news release, calling him "an exceptional leader whose career reflects a deep commitment to democratic values, civil rights, and the civic purpose of higher education." Mitchell added, "Launching this fellowship together with AAC&U is a historic step for our organizations, and Jon’s vision will be instrumental in helping campuses strengthen citizenship education at a moment when the nation needs it most."
The AU Board of Trustees appointed David Marchick, dean of the Kogod School of Business, as interim president. Marchick will assume the role on July 1, 2026, and serve until a permanent replacement is selected.