Association of Independent Technological Universities AITU

Overview

The Association of Independent Technological Universities (AITU) is a nonprofit organization representing a network of private technological universities in the United States. Established in 1957, AITU aims to promote and advance the mission of its member institutions, which focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education. The association serves as a platform for collaboration, innovation and advocacy, working to enhance the quality and impact of technological higher education in the U.S.

1. Historical and Legal Framework

Founded in 1957, AITU was created to provide a collective voice for private technological universities in the United States. The association was established to foster collaboration among institutions dedicated to advancing STEM education and research. Operating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, AITU is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a tax-exempt entity. Its formation was driven by the need for a unified approach to address the challenges and opportunities facing private technological universities during a period of rapid technological advancement and societal change.

2. Mission, Vision and Objectives

AITU's mission is to play a vital role in securing the future of American competitiveness in the global marketplace by:

• Sharing ideas and best practices to advance and inspire creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship within the membership;
• Recruiting the best and the brightest to member schools by promoting the liberating experiences and rewarding careers that a technology-oriented education offers;
• Fostering and advancing excellence in engineering, science and professional education from K-12 onward.

Through these objectives, AITU seeks to enhance the quality and impact of technological higher education, ensuring that its member institutions contribute effectively to the advancement of STEM fields and the broader society.

3. Governance, Structure and Independence

AITU operates as a voluntary association, with each member institution represented by its president or a designated delegate. The association is governed by a Board of Directors and led by an executive director. This structure allows for collaborative decision-making and ensures that the diverse perspectives of member institutions are considered in the association's activities. While maintaining its independence, AITU collaborates with other organizations, such as the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities and the Franciscan Federation, to advance shared goals in Catholic higher education.

4. Accreditation and Quality Evaluation Role in Higher Education

While AITU does not grant accreditation, it plays a significant role in supporting member institutions through the accreditation process. The association provides resources and guidance to help institutions integrate Franciscan values into their accreditation materials and institutional assessments. AITU also facilitates discussions among Accreditation Liaison Officers (ALOs) at member institutions to share best practices and strategies for maintaining institutional identity during accreditation processes.

5. International Cooperation and Network Memberships

AITU is affiliated with the International Federation of Catholic Universities (IFCU), fostering global collaboration among Catholic higher education institutions. Through this affiliation, AITU engages in international dialogues, shares best practices and supports global initiatives that advance Catholic higher education. Additionally, AITU maintains relationships with various religious and educational organizations to promote the values of Franciscan education worldwide.

6. Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

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

• Advocating for the inclusion of Franciscan values in educational policies and practices;
• Providing professional development opportunities for faculty and staff to enhance their understanding and application of Franciscan principles;
• Facilitating research and scholarship that explores the integration of faith and reason in higher education;
• Supporting member institutions in their efforts to address contemporary challenges through a Franciscan lens.

Looking forward, AITU 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 Franciscan institutions to the broader educational landscape.

7. Summary

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

8. Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the AITU?
  AITU is a nonprofit organization representing 22 Franciscan higher education institutions in the United States, focusing on promoting and strengthening their Catholic and Franciscan identity and mission.
• How many institutions are members of AITU?
  AITU represents 22 degree-granting Franciscan institutions across the United States.
• Does AITU grant accreditation?
  No, AITU does not grant accreditation but supports institutions in maintaining their Catholic and Franciscan identity during accreditation processes.
• Who leads AITU?
  AITU is led by an executive director, supported by a Board of Directors composed of representatives from member institutions.
• Is AITU affiliated with any international organizations?
  Yes, AITU is affiliated with the International Federation of Catholic Universities (IFCU), promoting global collaboration among Catholic higher education institutions.

Organization Name

Association of Independent Technological Universities

Acronym

AITU

Year of Establishment

1/01/1957

Control Type

Private

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

National

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

6419 S. Garfield Avenue
Willowbrook
60527 Illinois United States

Phone

+1 (630) 986 9884

Fax

n.a.

Official Social Media Channels

Facebook

Not available

X (Twitter)

Not available

LinkedIn

Not available

YouTube

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Instagram

Not available

Wikipedia Article

Association of Independent Technological Universities's Wikipedia article

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