Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design AICAD

Overview

The Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design (AICAD) is a non-profit consortium comprising 39 leading art and design colleges across the United States and Canada. Established in 1991, AICAD serves as a collaborative network that strengthens and connects its member institutions, promoting the value of specialized art and design education. The association provides a platform for shared resources, advocacy and initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality and impact of art and design education. According to uniRank, AICAD represents some of the most prestigious art and design schools in North America.

History and Legal Framework

Founded in 1991 by a group of 25 art college presidents, AICAD was created to address the need for a collective effort among similarly structured art schools to mutually develop their programs and share information. The association operates as a tax-exempt non-profit organization under U.S. federal law, with its headquarters located in Providence, Rhode Island. AICAD's formation was driven by the recognition that independent art and design institutions could benefit from collaboration in areas such as curriculum development, faculty exchange and student recruitment.

Mission, Vision and Objectives

Mission: AICAD's mission is to strengthen and connect its member colleges and to inform the public about the value of studying art and design. The association aims to enhance the quality of education, foster collaboration among institutions and advocate for the importance of art and design in higher education and society.

Vision: To be a leading force in promoting excellence in art and design education, ensuring that member institutions are recognized for their contributions to the cultural and creative sectors.

Objectives:

• Facilitate collaboration among member institutions through shared resources and initiatives.
• Advocate for the value of art and design education at local, national and international levels.
• Provide professional development opportunities for faculty and staff.
• Enhance student success through programs such as the AICAD Exchange.
• Promote diversity, equity and inclusion within the art and design community.

Governance, Structure and Independence

AICAD operates as a decentralized network, with each member institution maintaining its autonomy while participating in collective initiatives. The association is governed by a Board of Directors composed of representatives from member institutions. The Executive Director oversees the day-to-day operations and strategic direction of AICAD. The association's independence is maintained through its non-profit status and the voluntary participation of its member institutions, allowing it to uphold its mission without external influence.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation Role in Higher Education

While AICAD does not serve as an accrediting body, it plays a significant role in promoting quality assurance within its member institutions. The association encourages the adoption of best practices in education and research, facilitates peer evaluations and supports the development of joint programs that adhere to high academic standards. Through its collaborative initiatives, AICAD contributes to the enhancement of educational quality and the alignment of curricula with regional and international expectations.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

AICAD actively engages in international cooperation to broaden the scope and impact of its initiatives. The association is a member of several regional and international networks, including the European League of Institutes of the Arts (ELIA) and the International Association of Universities and Colleges of Art, Design and Media (CUMULUS). These affiliations enable AICAD to participate in broader discussions on higher education policy, research funding and academic mobility, thereby enhancing the global presence of its member institutions.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

ACAD's initiatives have a profound impact on higher education in the art and design sector. By fostering collaboration among universities, the association contributes to the development of joint academic programs, enhances research capabilities and promotes cultural exchange. Looking forward, AICAD aims to expand its network, increase the number of collaborative projects and strengthen its role in shaping the future of higher education in the art and design disciplines. Its efforts are aligned with regional development goals and the broader global higher education agenda.

Summary

The Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design is a pivotal organization in fostering academic, scientific and cultural cooperation among higher education institutions in the art and design sector. Through its collaborative initiatives, AICAD enhances the quality of education, promotes research excellence and contributes to the sustainable development of the creative industries. Its commitment to international cooperation and adherence to high academic standards position AICAD as a significant player in the landscape of global higher education.

FAQs

• What is AICAD? AICAD is a non-profit consortium of 39 leading art and design colleges in the United States and Canada.
• When was AICAD founded? AICAD was established in 1991 by a group of 25 art college presidents.
• Does AICAD provide accreditation? No, AICAD does not serve as an accrediting body but promotes quality assurance and best practices among its member institutions.
• Where is AICAD's headquarters located? AICAD's headquarters is located in Providence, Rhode Island.
• Is AICAD involved in international networks? Yes, AICAD is a member of several regional and international networks, including the European League of Institutes of the Arts and the International Association of Universities and Colleges of Art, Design and Media.
• What is the AICAD Exchange? The AICAD Exchange is a program that allows students from member institutions to study for a semester at another AICAD-affiliated school, promoting academic and cultural exchange.

Organization Name

Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design

Acronym

AICAD

Year of Establishment

1/01/1991

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

n.a.

Address

3957 22nd Street
San Francisco
94114-3205 California United States

Phone

+1 (415) 642 8595

Fax

+1 (415) 642 8590

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

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Wikipedia Article

Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design's Wikipedia article

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