WASHINGTON – Former student-athlete and longtime trustee Charlie Lydecker, SPA/BA '85, was elected Chair of the Board of Trustees earlier this summer. Lydecker, who came to AU on a swimming scholarship and has remained deeply engaged in the life of the University, has served as vice chair of the board since 2023 and as a trustee since 2005.
Lydecker's election as chair reflects his decades-long commitment to American University and his belief in the transformative power of the student experience—both in and out of the classroom. Together with his wife, Christine Lydecker (Kogod/BSBA '86, Kogod/MS '88), he has supported numerous campus initiatives, particularly those tied to student wellness, athletics, and engagement.
In 2024, the Lydeckers made a leadership gift to support AU's Student Thriving Complex, the university's historic $109 million investment in student well-being. In recognition of their generosity, the university named two key campus thoroughfares Lydecker Way and Lydecker Tunnel, connecting students to dining, recreation, and other key campus resources.
"Charlie brings a unique perspective to this role as a former student-athlete and a longtime supporter of our department," said JM Caparro, Director of Athletics and Recreation. "He understands the impact of leadership at every level, and his deep connection to AU makes him an ideal person to help guide the University forward during this exciting time."
Lydecker is the President and CEO of Foundation Risk Partners, a national insurance brokerage and consulting firm based in Ormond Beach, Fla. He and Christine met as student-athletes at AU and have remained champions of the university ever since, sustaining a lifelong commitment to the values that first brought them to campus more than 40 years ago.
At the same board meeting, Gaurdie Banister Jr., father of Kogod alum Julian Banister (Kogod/BSBA '17) was elected to serve as vice chair alongside Lydecker. The board also approved the 2025–2028 slate of returning trustees and welcomed two new trustees, as well as incoming student and faculty representatives.
