June 30, 2003

WASHINGTON - Tom George, the Director of Athletics at American University, announced his resignation today. George, who held the position since November 2001, cited personal circumstances that require a return to the private sector of sports marketing.

"I appreciate the opportunity that American University has afforded me and I want to thank the entire AU community for their support of my efforts," said George. George is a former senior executive at the sports marketing firm, Octagon. The resignation will take effect July 31, 2003.

George's tenure corresponded with American University's entry into the Patriot League. American University has enjoyed unprecedented athletic and academic success during its two years in the League, including posting the highest cumulative grade point averages for student-athletes ever.

"I want to express my appreciation to Tom and his enthusiasm for American University Athletics," said Al Checcio, Vice President of Development. "His dedication to the athletes and student body has been exceptional."

A search for a new Director of Athletics will begin immediately.

American University fields a 19-sport NCAA Division I athletics program featuring 10 women's sports and nine for men. Since joining the Patriot League, the University has captured league championships in men's cross country, women's lacrosse, women's cross country, men's soccer, women's soccer, men's tennis, women's tennis and women's volleyball, and a regular-season title in men's basketball. American University's graduation rate among student-athletes is 87%.

Chartered by an Act of Congress in 1893, American University features students from all 50 states, the District of Columbia and more than 160 nations worldwide.