WASHINGTON - American University Athletics has been invited to return to the NCAA Common Ground Experience in March 2026, marking the department's second consecutive year participating in the national initiative focused on dialogue, understanding, and inclusion across differences.
The Common Ground Experience, hosted by the NCAA national office in Indianapolis, brings together athletics administrators, coaches, and campus partners from across the country to engage in facilitated conversations around faith, sexual orientation, gender identity, and student-athlete wellbeing. The program is designed to equip athletics departments with the tools and shared language needed to foster environments of belonging while navigating complex and sometimes challenging topics.
AU first participated in 2025 and was selected to return following its strong engagement and commitment to implementing the work on campus.
"Common Ground is not a one-time experience for us—it's ongoing culture work," said Patty Medina, Associate Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Development & Inclusive Excellence. "Last year challenged us to listen differently, lead more intentionally, and build stronger bridges across perspectives. We're proud to continue that work and represent American University again."
2026 AU Cohort
American University's 2026 cohort includes a cross-functional group of campus leaders:
- Erin Saunders, M.S. – Director, Student-Athlete Support Program
- Patty Medina, M.Ed. – Associate Athletic Director
- Dr. Sydnee Collins – Assistant Athletic Director, Mental Well-Being and Performance
- Natasha Benitez – Wellness Program Manager and Adjunct Professor
- Khouri Lassiter – Assistant Director of Education & Support Program for LGBTQIA+
The diverse makeup of the group reflects AU Athletics' integrated approach to student-athlete development—bringing together academic support, mental health, inclusive excellence, and LGBTQIA+ advocacy to strengthen the overall student-athlete experience.
Building on 2025 Momentum
Following the 2025 Common Ground Experience, the AU Office of Inclusive Excellence hosted an Inclusion Forum on campus featuring a panel discussion to share reflections and lessons learned with the broader university community. The event reinforced the athletic department's commitment to sustained dialogue and collaboration across campus partners.
By returning in 2026, AU aims to deepen its skillset in facilitating respectful conversations, strengthen its internal training efforts for coaches and staff, and continue aligning athletics with the university's broader commitment to inclusive excellence and student wellbeing.
The NCAA Common Ground Experience emphasizes courageous conversations, mutual respect, and practical strategies for supporting student-athletes of all identities. For American University, the opportunity to return signals both progress and responsibility.
"We're excited to be back," Medina added. "This is about showing up, doing the work, and ensuring every student-athlete at AU feels seen, supported, and valued."
American University joins a select group of institutions nationwide participating in the 2026 Common Ground Experience in Indianapolis this March.
