Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities ACCU

Overview

The Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities (ACCU) is a nonprofit organization representing Catholic higher education institutions across the United States. Founded in 1899, ACCU serves as the collective voice for Catholic colleges and universities, promoting and strengthening their mission and identity. The association provides a platform for collaboration, advocacy and professional development among its members, which include over 200 degree-granting institutions .

1. Historical and Legal Framework

ACCU was established in 1899 by 53 delegates from Catholic colleges throughout the United States. Its formation aimed to organize Catholic higher education institutions similarly to other U.S. colleges and universities. Over the years, ACCU has grown to represent more than 90% of accredited Catholic institutions of higher learning in the U.S., as well as approximately two dozen international universities .

2. Mission, Vision and Objectives

The mission of ACCU is to promote and strengthen the Catholic identity and mission of its member institutions so that all associated with Catholic higher education can contribute to the greater good of the world and the Church. The association focuses on:

• Advocacy: Representing Catholic higher education in public policy discussions.
• Professional Development: Providing resources and programs for faculty and staff.
• Mission Integration: Supporting institutions in embedding Catholic values into their academic and campus life.
• Research and Data Analysis: Offering insights on issues related to Catholic higher education.

3. Governance, Structure and Independence

ACCU operates as a voluntary association where the president or rector of each participating institution serves as a voting representative. The association is governed by a Board of Directors and led by a President, currently Dr. Donna Carroll, Ed.D. ACCU maintains its independence while collaborating with other organizations such as the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops and the National Catholic Educational Association .

4. Accreditation and Quality Evaluation Role in Higher Education

While ACCU does not grant accreditation, it plays a significant role in supporting the accreditation process for Catholic institutions. The association provides guidance on maintaining Catholic identity and mission during accreditation processes and offers resources to help institutions meet accreditation standards that align with their religious values.

5. International Cooperation and Network Memberships

ACCU is affiliated with the International Federation of Catholic Universities (IFCU), fostering global collaboration among Catholic higher education institutions. Through this affiliation, ACCU engages in international dialogues, exchanges best practices and supports global initiatives that advance Catholic higher education.

6. Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

ACCU continues to influence the landscape of Catholic higher education by:

• Advocating: Representing Catholic higher education in policy discussions at the federal and state levels.
• Supporting: Providing resources and programs that help institutions integrate Catholic values into their operations.
• Collaborating: Engaging with other organizations to promote the mission and identity of Catholic higher education.

Looking forward, ACCU aims to strengthen its role as a leader in Catholic higher education by expanding its services, enhancing member engagement and continuing to advocate for the unique contributions of Catholic institutions to the broader educational landscape.

7. Summary

The Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities is a pivotal organization in the United States, dedicated to promoting and supporting Catholic higher education. Through advocacy, professional development and fostering collaboration among institutions, ACCU ensures that Catholic colleges and universities remain true to their mission and continue to contribute positively to society.

8. Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the ACCU?
  ACCU is a nonprofit organization representing Catholic higher education institutions in the United States, focusing on promoting and strengthening their Catholic identity and mission.
• How many institutions are members of ACCU?
  ACCU represents over 200 degree-granting Catholic institutions across the United States .
• Does ACCU grant accreditation?
  No, ACCU does not grant accreditation but supports institutions in maintaining their Catholic identity during accreditation processes.
• Who leads ACCU?
  ACCU is led by a President, currently Dr. Donna Carroll, Ed.D., who oversees the association's operations and initiatives.
• Is ACCU affiliated with any international organizations?
  Yes, ACCU is affiliated with the International Federation of Catholic Universities (IFCU), promoting global collaboration among Catholic higher education institutions.

Organization Name

Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities

Acronym

ACCU

Year of Establishment

1/01/1899

Control Type

Private

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

International

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

over 200

Address

One Dupont Circle, Suite 650
Washington
20036 District of Columbia United States

Phone

+1 (202) 457 650

Fax

+1 (202) 728 977

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook

Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities's Facebook page

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LinkedIn

Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities's LinkedIn profile

YouTube

Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities's YouTube channel

Instagram

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Wikipedia Article

Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities's Wikipedia article

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