The AUP Endowment

A Fund for AUP's Future

The American University is funded, in part, by an endowment. Established in 2021, this collection of funds provides enduring support for the University's annual needs, and marks the beginning of an important chapter in AUP's history.

 
    • €1,000,000
      The size of AUP's Endowment in the 2022 fiscal year
    • €number here
      Used annually
    • %number here
      Supports student scholarship

The Endowment At Work

Effie Heslop '26

Celeste Schenck Scholar

Effie Heslop, who is Finnish and English, chose AUP for its flexible approach to liberal arts learning. “I wanted a school that would be open to new ideas and allow me to take control of my education,” she explains. Prior to AUP, she attended a travelling high school with a strong emphasis on experiential classes; she wanted to continue this unique learning style during higher education. “I love exploring cultures and what it means to be a part of different communities around the world,” she says. AUP also allowed her to continue studying within the American system while staying in Europe.

Being able to apply for needs-based financial aid opened the pathway for her to choose to study at an institution with values that lined up with her own: “Scholarships show the school cares about diversifying the student body and catering for students from different economic backgrounds.” She believes that education is a way to empower people to fight for their voices to be heard in global debates surrounding poverty and inequality. “Scholarship donors support the next generation,” she says. “It’s a great way to invest in the future.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an endowment?

An endowment is a permanent source of funding for the University, made up of donated gifts, which provides consistent support for AUP’s academic mission.

Contrary to what many envision, an endowment is not a single bank account, but rather a collection of gifts, which have been invested and grow over time. Every year, a payout from the endowment is dedicated to supporting various designations. Any appreciation remains in the endowment to promote healthy growth over time.

When was AUP's endowment founded, and how does it work?

The Celeste Schenck Presidential Scholarship Endowment Fund was established in 2021 during President Schenck’s final year in office. Each year, two scholars are named to receive support from the fund, as well as personal mentorship from former President Schenck.

Are there constraints on the endowment?

Answer here

Why is an endowment important?

Answer here.

An inspirational quote from President Sonya Stephens would go here. Something about the future of the university...

Dr. Sonya Stephens President of The American University of Paris

AUP Giving