The American University of Nigeria hosted new parents to its traditional President’s Dinner, held on August 28, 2025, as part of the Fall Orientation activities. The event provided an opportunity to welcome families into the AUN community and to appreciate them for entrusting the university with their children’s education and personal growth.
In his remarks, AUN President, Dr. DeWayne Frazier, reminded parents and students that their presence at AUN was the result of deliberate choices and a commitment to excellence. “Your being here is not a coincidence, but a destined reality. At AUN, we take our work of impacting students seriously,” he stated.
AUN Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, Prof. Paul Vita, delivered the vote of thanks, commending parents for choosing AUN and reassuring them of a transformative academic journey for their wards. He emphasized the university’s culture of respect and urged students to embrace it. “Respect your faculty. Respect everyone, including the janitors, cooks, and gardeners, because here, we respect each other,” he advised.
Parents, Mr. Tonye Preghafi and Mrs. Weng Dung, also expressed confidence in AUN’s academic standards and organization. “We are proud of having our children here. The academic standard and its level of organization are incomparable to any universities around,” they said.
Some the returning students who shared their AUN experience at the event encouraged the newest Stallions to remain focused on their studies. Kefas Zawaya, a Software Engineering major, urged them to “remember these powerful words: Get up and show up.” Chinedu Noble Kanu, also a Software Engineering major, left the freshmen with this advice. “Never compromise your integrity.” While Zinabari Thompson, a Law major, reminded them that challenges are part of the journey. “What doesn’t break you, makes you stronger,” she said.
Reported by John Abah