American Association of State Colleges and Universities

Leaders from across the country gathered in Asheville, NC, for AASCU’s Transforming Local Communities Symposium—an opportunity to connect, collaborate, and advance the vital work of rural-serving institutions.

From strengthening local workforces to promoting sustainability and expanding postsecondary value, conversations throughout the symposium reflected the deep impact these institutions have on their communities. We’re grateful to the presidents and chancellors who shared insights, challenges, and strategies to help shape the future of rural higher education.

Learn more about AASCU’s Rural-Serving Institutions: tinyurl.com/32azyfd7

Thank you to the speakers, Western Carolina University, our corporate partners Risepoint, McKinstry, & Gray Decision Intelligence, and participants who contributed to this important convening!

Before and during their time on Capitol Hill, AASCU members came together for sessions on policy updates, strategy, and shared priorities—building the tools and insights needed to advocate effectively.

From thoughtful discussions and collaborative prep to meetings with lawmakers, these moments capture both the work behind the scenes and the impact on the Hill.

Take a look behind the scenes at 📸

AASCU’s American Democracy Project convened March 15–16 alongside Compact26 in Chicago, bringing together campus leaders, faculty, staff, and students committed to strengthening civic learning at regional public universities.

Through dynamic discussions, poster sessions, and ignite talks, participants shared ideas, built partnerships, and helped shape the future of ADP. This convening reflected a strong collaboration with Campus Compact and a shared commitment to advancing the public purposes of higher education.

Thank you to all who joined us and contributed to this important work!

📸 Photo Credit to Dan Merlo.

Earlier this week, leaders from across higher education gathered in Washington, D.C., for AASCU’s AI Symposium to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping teaching, learning, and campus operations.

Throughout the symposium, leaders engaged in thoughtful conversations about the opportunities and responsibilities that come with AI. Sessions highlighted the importance of human-centered innovation, responsible governance, and preparing students for a rapidly evolving digital future.

Thank you to the speakers, panelists, and campus leaders who shared their expertise and perspectives, helping advance important dialogue about AI and the future of higher education.

Take a look at highlights from the symposium below. 📸

Photo Credit: Lisa Helfert for AASCU

Following the AASCU 2025 Annual Conference in Nashville, several presidents and campus leaders who are part of AASCU’s SSEI Initiative attended the SSEI Impact and Sustainability Summit (Nov. 17–18).

Participants reflected on the progress made through SSEI and mapped out the next phase of support. Throughout the summit, attendees shared strategies to sustain student-success efforts, strengthen peer networks, and set a shared agenda for impactful, student-centered work moving forward.

Thank you to our speakers, panelists, and all who joined us in strengthening this community of practice. Here's to continued progress and a shared commitment to student success.

Day 4 brought thoughtful discussions, practical insights, and moments of meaningful connection.

From committee meetings and roundtables to sessions on resilience, immersive learning, AI, crisis communication, and campus innovation, leaders explored strategies for a rapidly evolving higher education landscape. We wrapped up the conference with an inspiring luncheon focused on purpose-driven leadership and centering student success.

Thank you to all the attendees, speakers, and sponsors who made this event possible!

Day 3 brought meaningful conversations, fresh insights, and a strong sense of community.

From morning coffee chats and immersive learning demos to roundtables on technology, veterans’ success, and AI, campus leaders spent the day exploring new approaches to the challenges ahead. Midday sessions and topical discussions dug into the changing landscape of higher education, highlighting strategies for student success, regional engagement, and resilient leadership.

We ended the day with an inspiring plenary on the power of storytelling, complete with a creative songwriting activity.

Swipe through to see the energy and inspiration from Day 3! 📸

Day 2 was filled with connection, collaboration, and big ideas.

From morning workshops on modern leadership and resilient planning to immersive learning demos and affinity group meetings, campus leaders explored new ways to support today’s students. Afternoon sessions spotlighted innovative practices and offered space for networking and future-focused conversations.

In true Nashville style, attendees showed off Western-inspired looks and jumped into line dancing lessons that brought everyone together throughout Day 2. 📸

kicked off on November 14 in Nashville with the latest cohort of AASCU's New Presidents Academy convening for their closing session. Later in the day, attendees had an inspiring tour of the National Museum of African American Music!

Click through for highlights from our first day! 📸

From Oct. 29 through Nov. 1, AASCU attended the 2025 China Partnerships and Education Expo as part of the China Annual Conference and Expo for International Education alongside our delegation of 13 member institutions that connected with peers across China to strengthen global collaboration, expand academic exchange, and create more opportunities for students.

From partnership development meetings to the Sixth China–U.S. Provincial/State University Presidents’ Forum, our members showcased the impact of regional public universities in advancing international education.

President Godard visited Capitol Hill this week to meet with members of the Indiana Congressional Delegation and discuss the exciting work happening at Indiana State University, along with our vision for the future. He also met with Dr. Chuck Welch, president of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, to talk about education policy and the vital role of public universities! 🎓💙