Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities (AICCU)

Today, we’re celebrating National Women’s Colleges and Universities Day! American women’s colleges were founded more than 250 years ago to create access and opportunity for women in higher education. AICCU is proud to recognize our sector’s women’s colleges— and —for their lasting impact in empowering women through education, leadership, and innovation.

📸: Courtesy of tagged institutions

Thank you to everyone who came to the Steps to College University Fair over the weekend. AICCU and several of our institutions were able to connect with hundreds of students and their families about the opportunities available at our campuses. We look forward to welcoming new students to one of our colleges and universities in the future!

made its in-person comeback yesterday! The rainy weather couldn’t keep students down as dozens made their way to the Capitol for multiple rounds of meetings with legislators and their staff. They shared their unique perspective on issues students face when pursuing a college education and how an increase to the can support them.

It’s always such a delight to cross paths again with one of our ICCAP alumni. Zenaida Huerta from our ICCAP 2020 cohort joined AICCU president Kristen Soares on the “Other Voices in Advocacy: Student and Trustee Engagement” panel earlier today at the 2023 NAICU Annual Meeting. The discussion examined how community advocates work together to enhance the campus voice. Kristen shared how she coordinates with university presidents and other higher ed leaders in California to establish statewide advocacy. Zenaida spoke about her student advocacy work during her time in ICCAP and how the program can be a model for other higher ed institutions outside California.
📷: NAICU

Come meet us at the Steps to College University Fair in Sacramento! AICCU and 15 of our independent California colleges and universities will have informational booths set up ready to answer any questions about the college admissions process, financial aid, campus amenities, and more. The February event is the largest bilingual and binational university fair in Northern California. Families are often blocked by a language barrier when it comes to understanding their students’ education goals and needs. That’s why Steps to College is providing resources available in both English and Spanish with representatives who can speak both languages. The event is FREE and brings together colleges and universities from California and Mexico. Register now at stepstocollegesac.org.

Yesterday our ICCAP 2023 cohort met for the FIRST TIME at . Twenty students arrived virtually and in-person from private colleges across California to take part in orientation activities. They were able to mingle, meet with past ICCAP participants, and discuss ideas for their upcoming projects in the program. Congratulations to everyone accepted into the cohort. We look forward to working with you and expect to see great things throughout the program!

Last night inducted its 15th class of extraordinary Californians to its . The annual event honors those who have made an impact across our Golden State, and we are proud to see almost half of this year’s recipients have connections to our ICCUs! AICCU president Kristen Soares was there to deliver the welcoming remarks for the ceremony and was able to catch up with the biggest stars of the night. Swipe through to see who ➡️

Steven Chu: Nobel Prize-winning physicist and professor at

Alonzo King: dancer/choreographer with honorary doctorates from &

Barbara Morgan: educator, retired astronaut, and alumna

Ed Ruscha: artist and graduate of

AICCU is wishing all those who served a happy Veterans Day. We are thankful for your service. Our office is closed today to observe the holiday.

Congratulations to on the opening of their new satellite campus in Mountain View! AICCU president Kristen Soares joined the celebrations as Palo Alto University President Maureen O’Connor led the ribbon cutting ceremony.

The new facility is home to the Gronowski Center, a teaching and training clinic that offers mental health services to the community.

offer an opportunity for counselors, students, and families to learn more about the private, nonprofit colleges and universities throughout California!

Visit aiccu.edu/CollegeGuides for more information!

Please join State Senator Anthony Portantino in partnership with the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation and NextGen Policy, for a FREE Student Loan Workshop Webinar on Tuesday, October 11 at 6:00 p.m!

Register at ➡️ tinyurl.com/webinar10112022