Consortium for North American Higher Education Collaboration CONAHEC

Overview

The Consortium for North American Higher Education Collaboration (CONAHEC) is a non-profit, membership-based network comprising over 180 higher education institutions from the United States, Canada and Mexico, along with select affiliate members from other regions. Established in 1994 and headquartered in Tucson, Arizona, CONAHEC facilitates academic collaboration, mobility and institutional development across North America and beyond.

1. Historical and Legal Framework

CONAHEC originated from the U.S.-Mexico Educational Interchange Project initiated in 1993 by the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) and the Mexican Association for International Education (AMPEI). In 1995, the project expanded to include Canada and in 1997, it was formally named the Consortium for North American Higher Education Collaboration. As a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, CONAHEC operates under U.S. federal regulations governing non-profit entities.

2. Mission, Vision and Objectives

CONAHEC's mission is to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation in the North American community by fostering collaboration between institutions of higher education in Canada, Mexico and the United States. The organization aims to:

• Facilitate academic mobility for students, faculty and staff.
• Support institutional development through shared resources and best practices.
• Promote collaborative research and training programs among member institutions.
• Organize conferences and events to foster networking and knowledge exchange.
• Advocate for policies that support international higher education collaboration.

These objectives align with CONAHEC's role in advancing higher education through international partnerships and collaborative initiatives.

3. Governance, Structure and Independence

CONAHEC is governed by an all-volunteer Board of Directors, consisting of both voting and non-voting (ex-officio) members. The organization operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit entity, ensuring its independence and non-partisan status. While primarily focused on North American institutions, CONAHEC also engages with select affiliate members from other regions, expanding its global network and influence.

4. Accreditation and Quality Evaluation Role

CONAHEC does not serve as an accrediting body for higher education institutions. Instead, it facilitates collaboration and exchange among member institutions to enhance educational quality and institutional effectiveness. Through programs such as student, faculty and staff exchanges, CONAHEC contributes to the development of international competencies and the sharing of best practices among its members.

5. International Cooperation and Network Memberships

CONAHEC's network includes over 180 higher education institutions from North America, with affiliate members from regions including Latin America, Europe, Asia and the Caribbean. This diverse membership enables CONAHEC to promote cross-border academic collaboration and to serve as a platform for international partnerships. The organization also collaborates with various international education associations and governmental bodies to advocate for policies that support global higher education initiatives.

6. Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

CONAHEC continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of North American higher education by:

• Enhancing access to international academic opportunities for students, faculty and staff.
• Supporting institutional development through collaborative initiatives and shared resources.
• Advocating for policies that promote internationalization and global engagement in higher education.

Looking forward, CONAHEC aims to expand its network, deepen its collaborative efforts and continue to serve as a catalyst for innovation and excellence in higher education across North America and globally.

7. Summary

The Consortium for North American Higher Education Collaboration (CONAHEC) is a non-profit, membership-based network that fosters academic collaboration and mobility among higher education institutions in Canada, Mexico and the United States. Established in 1994, CONAHEC serves as a platform for institutions to engage in joint initiatives, share best practices and advocate for policies that support international higher education. Through its programs and partnerships, CONAHEC contributes to the advancement of higher education by promoting mutual understanding and cooperation across borders.

8. FAQs

1. What is CONAHEC?
   CONAHEC is a non-profit, membership-based network of higher education institutions from North America and select global partners, dedicated to fostering academic collaboration and mobility.
2. How can institutions join CONAHEC?
   Institutions can apply for membership through the CONAHEC website, where they can find information on membership benefits and the application process.
3. Does CONAHEC accredit institutions?
   No, CONAHEC does not serve as an accrediting body. Instead, it facilitates collaboration and exchange among member institutions to enhance educational quality.
4. Who can participate in CONAHEC programs?
   Students, faculty and staff affiliated with CONAHEC member institutions are eligible to participate in various programs, including exchanges and collaborative initiatives.
5. How does CONAHEC support international collaboration?
   CONAHEC supports international collaboration by providing a platform for institutions to connect, share resources and engage in joint initiatives that promote global engagement in higher education.

Organization Name

Consortium for North American Higher Education Collaboration

Acronym

CONAHEC

Year of Establishment

1/01/1994

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 170

Address

220 W. 6th Street, University Services Annex Building 300A, Room 108
Tucson
85701 Arizona United States

Phone

+1 (520) 621 7761

Fax

+1 (520) 626 2675

n.a.

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