Date: 2026-08-20 Source: Email - Danielle Vogel (daniellev@american.edu) to michael@ryevalley.co, subject “Re: Chat Follow Up” Prior context: Michael <> Danielle Vogel (American University)
Signal
Danielle replied the same day as the follow-up. American University will not pay speaker fees for campus visits. Emil has an “amazing story” and students would love to learn from him, but the institution can’t swing it.
Deal status: closed / lost. No path forward at this institution unless format changes (non-fee engagement, student org budget, etc.).
Note
Michael’s reply was gracious (“I’ll keep an eye out for next steps once the semester is rolling”). Left the door slightly open without committing to anything.