Published Clips
Tracking American University’s response to Trump’s higher education policies
President Donald Trump’s higher education policies have shaken universities across the nation, with impacts ranging from reduced research funding to eliminated diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives. View the interactive data table here: https://awolau.org/7857/print/politics/tracking-american-universitys-response-to-trumps-higher-education-policies/
In the Weeds
A volunteer-run boathouse defends the Anacostia River from invasive species and polluted stormwater.
Larger Than Ever, La Festa Italiana is Still a Close-Knit Affair
La Festa Italiana, the annual Italian culture festival hosted by Holy Rosary Church on Sixth Street, is throwing its largest party yet. Many of the event’s traditions are upheld by volunteers who have been returning for years or decades.
Pokémon Go Fest Introduces Massive Crowds to Liberty State Park
In June 2025, Pokemon Go Fest came to Jersey City, NJ, drawing over 50,000 people to Liberty State Park. In a major test of the park’s staff and facilities, participants praised its accessibility and views. Published June 11, 2025, by the Jersey City Times.
First-Year Advising’s Final Days
In September 2024, first-year advisors at American University were told their office would be shut down in a few months’ time, days before the busiest time in their semester. Now the advisors, already feeling undervalued by administrators, are taking a hard look at their futures at the school. Published April 2025 in AWOL Magazine’s 36th print edition.
Federal government has revoked some AU international student visas
In April 2025, I reported the federal government had revoked visas of international students at American University, but the administration had not announced this to the community and was not planning on doing so. The story was sourced in multiple nationwide trackers of visa revocations. Published April 22, 2025.
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My AWOL Magazine byline: https://awolau.org/staff_name/ben-ackman/
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