November 2004
A Focus on Foggy Bottom
New Office and Area Events Seek to Develop Common Bond
GW and the Foggy Bottom community share common ground
and recently they have shared common events that have enhanced and celebrated
the University and neighborhood life.
In an effort to support dialogue with government officials, area residents
and the business community, GW has created the Office of District of Columbia
and Foggy Bottom/West End Affairs. Led by Michael Akin, who has more than
three years experience in GWs Office of Government, International
and Corporate Affairs, this department will serve as a point of coordination
and action between the University and its local constituents.
I applaud GW for responding to the residential and business community
requests for dialogue and collaboration with this dedicated office for
town/gown affairs, said DC Councilmember Jack Evans. Proactive
communication with the community is especially welcome and appreciated
from the citys largest private employer.
During his tenure, Akin has been instrumental in thinking differently
about community relations, helping to establish FRIENDS in 2002. With
more than 100 community members, FRIENDS is dedicated to building stronger,
positive relationships through communication, cooperation and collaboration.
Akin is a member of Mayor Anthony Williams Urban Professional Advisory
Board, precinct captain for Ward 2 Democrats and a member of the DC Chamber
of Commerce. His advocacy experience includes community outreach for Emmaus
Services for the Aging and he is a member of the DC Citizen Emergency
Response Team (CERT). Akin has a Bachelor of Arts degree in political
communication with a minor in applied ethics from GW.
As this new office opens for the community, students participated in the
sixth annual Foggy Bottom Cleanup Day on Oct. 23, as they continued the
tradition of giving back to the Foggy Bottom community.
The objective of the event is simple: to work with and for our neighbors
to clean up our home, said Chrissy Caggiano, Student Association
vice president of community affairs. The event is an incredible
opportunity to take a step back and do something small to make a big difference
in the area.
Earlier in October, the GW and Foggy Bottom communities enjoyed the second
annual FRIENDS block party.
Send feedback to: bygeorge@gwu.edu
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