A message from Prof. Dr. Murray Pratt to the AUC community:

“First and foremost, it has been a privilege to work with so many inspirational and motivated students and colleagues. I joined AUC as Dean on 1 February 2016, and the end of January will mark five dynamic years in this role. Much has been achieved during this time, with many thanks to the tireless enthusiasm and participation of colleagues and students, and I will look back on these years as both challenging and enjoyable. During my tenure as Dean, AUC celebrated its tenth anniversary, our many talented students completed their learning in exciting and ambitious classes, and I had the privilege to see more than a thousand individuals walk across the stage at graduation and go on to create an ever-expanding, yet close-knit community of alumni representing our values and the city worldwide. After deep reflection and much consideration, I’ve decided that it’s now time for me to once again focus my energy on research activities and to read, write, publish and continue to engage with the work of the Amsterdam School of Cultural Analysis.

In our present world, I’m reminded each day just how valuable a Liberal Arts and Sciences approach continues to be when facing societies' multifaceted concerns, how the Dutch model of University Colleges offers students an invaluable experience to develop as academic citizens equipped to face these challenges, and the immense importance of AUC’s mission in creating an environment where excellence and diversity go hand in hand. I’ve witnessed how AUC has become this community, responding to challenges with curiosity and engagement, with science and reasoned analyses, and never forgetting to give attention to equity when examining life’s big and complex questions. As AUC continues to evolve and support new generations of learners, I would like to extend my thanks to all students, alumni, staff, colleagues and members of the wider community who have contributed to our college over the last five years. I wish you all the very best for the next steps in your exciting journey and look forward to seeing just how bright your futures will be.”