American University President Jonathan Alger announced the appointment of Dr. Sarah Irvine Belson as the university’s new Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) in September, 2025. A longtime member of the AU community and former dean of the School of Education, Irvine Belson brings more than 30 years of experience at the university and a deep commitment to student success and well-being to this important role.
As Faculty Athletics Representative, Irvine Belson will serve as the primary liaison between athletics and the broader academic community. The FAR plays a critical role in ensuring the academic integrity of the athletics program, supporting the holistic development of student-athletes, and helping maintain institutional compliance with NCAA and conference regulations. She succeeds Dr. Bob Karch, who recently retired after years of dedicated service in the role.
Irvine Belson currently serves as a professor in the School of Education and as director of the Center for Postsecondary Readiness and Success (CPRS). She previously served as dean of the School of Education from 2002–2015, leading the development of innovative programs focused on equity, community engagement, and educational technology. Her scholarly work centers on inclusive education, education policy, and improving access to college and career pathways for underrepresented students.
Irvine Belson holds three degrees from Arizona State University, graduating with a bachelor’s in English, a master’s in Curriculum and Instruction, and finally a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology. In 2025, Irvine Belson was honored with the Outstanding Community Engagement Award at the American University Faculty Recognition Dinner.
