Dear BAU Community,
From academic milestones to exciting program developments and active student involvement, our university continues to thrive, thanks to the dedication and passion of our students, faculty, and staff.
As we transition into the month of March, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the events and achievements we experienced throughout February.
New Master’s Program Approved
BAU joins a prestigious group of world-class institutions leading the way in the integration of data science and public policy. Our Master of Science in Data Science and Public Policy program has been officially approved by the DC Higher Education Learning Commission! This is a significant milestone for BAU, opening new doors for academic excellence and career opportunities. By integrating data science techniques with public policy analysis, graduates will be prepared to make data-driven decisions that positively impact communities and influence policy development.
BAU is at the forefront of this emerging field as one of the first ten institutions to establish this program, alongside esteemed institutions such as Georgetown University, the University of Chicago, the University of Southern California, and Johns Hopkins University.
Recognition by Washington Business Journal
Bay Atlantic University has been ranked #4️ on The List by the Washington Business Journal among the Largest Full-Time MBA Programs in the greater Washington area in 2024!
This is the 5th year we have received this distinguished honor.
BAU Sponsored 50th Anniversary of Duke Ellington School of the Arts
We are proud to sponsor the 50th anniversary of the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, a landmark institution founded by Peggy Cafritz, a dear friend of our founder and I. Peggy, who visited our BAU K-12 schools and Bahcesehir University in Istanbul several times, left an enduring legacy through her philanthropy.
It was an excellent opportunity for us to further enhance the visibility of our name. We proudly participated in the 50th-anniversary celebrations of the Duke Experience, joined by our dedicated 10-person leadership team and our SGA president. The event allowed us to celebrate a significant milestone, strengthen key connections, and demonstrate our ongoing commitment to excellence.
Introducing Our New Board Member
It is our great pleasure to welcome Michael Schneider, a seasoned senior communications executive, to our Board of Trustees. His appointment will help support BAU’s mission of providing high-quality education, fostering innovation, and strengthening the university’s presence both in Washington, D.C. and globally.
Introducing Our New Student Government Leaders
The results of our recent Student Government Association (SGA) Elections are in, and I couldn’t be more proud to announce the winners:
- President: Yabsira Kuraz
- Vice President: Beatriz Conto
Their leadership will play an important role in shaping the future of BAU’s student community.
Congratulations to our newest SGA leaders!
Upcoming Events:
- Mardi Gras Party: Hosted by Student Services, join us this Fat Tuesday on March 4th to celebrate Mardi Gras in style! We’ve got a fun-filled event lined up with music, food, games, and activities for everyone.
- Open House: On March 4th and 6th we have an opportunity to showcase BAU’s diverse academic programs, introduce our new Master of Science in Data Science & Public Policy, engage with prospective students, and highlight our vibrant learning community.
- Spring Break: Begins on March 10th so no classes during this time. Enjoy your break and come back refreshed!
I am deeply grateful to each of you for your commitment to excellence and for making BAU a place of innovation, diversity, and success. Let’s continue to build on this momentum as we move forward together.
Warm regards,
Dr. Sinem Vatanartiran
President, Bay Atlantic University
