This past week, American University held their annual President’s Circle event, which celebrates the university’s most committed donors. The event also included the presentation of the Cyrus A. Ansary Medal, one of AU’s highest honors that recognizes individuals that demonstrate extraordinary commitment and leadership both within the university and within their professions. This year’s recipient was Margery Kraus, a lauded communicator and founder and executive chairman of APCO, a global advisory and advocacy firm headquartered in Washington, D.C.  

 “Through her pioneering career and her longtime commitment to American University, Margery Kraus truly exemplifies the Eagle spirit,” said American University President Jonathan Alger. “We’re honored to celebrate her extraordinary impact, which will continue to be felt by future generations of Eagles.”

Margery Kraus’ story is one of innovation and resilience. Kraus founded APCO in 1984 in a small office in Washington, D.C. Now, the company is a major multinational consulting firm celebrating the 40th anniversary of its founding and the 20th anniversary of its independence.  APCO remains one of the largest privately-owned consulting firms in the world and the largest that is majority women owned. Prior to founding APCO, Kraus assisted in the creation and development of the Close Up Foundation, a multimillion-dollar educational foundation sponsored in part by the United States Congress. The foundation is a civic education organization that aims to inspire youth across the country to develop critical thinking skills to tackle the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. 

The Cyrus A. Ansary Medal was created to honor the service of alumnus and American University chairman emeritus, Cyrus Ansary. Ansary was a member of the Board of Trustees for 27 years and is the longest-serving chair. During his time at the helm of the board, the university’s endowment tripled, the School of Communication was established, and AU expanded its campus presence through the purchase of Immaculata School (now the WCL Tenley Campus).

“As a double Eagle, receiving the Cyrus A. Ansary Medal from American University is an incredible and deeply meaningful honor. It is special to me as a recognition that reflects not only my personal journey but also the values and mission of an institution that shaped me in profound ways,” Kraus shared with the audience at the event.

The President’s Circle is a longstanding tradition at AU that recognizes leadership in philanthropy demonstrated by AU alumni, parents, faculty, staff, and friends. The generosity of members of the President’s Circle not only provides critical investment to foster the changemaking spirit of the next generation of Eagles, but also inspires others to give and help advance the university.