About

The Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) is an association of 765 nonprofit independent colleges and universities, state-based councils of independent colleges, and other higher education affiliates, that works to support college and university leadership, advance institutional excellence, and enhance public understanding of independent higher education’s contributions to society. CIC offers conferences, seminars, publications, and other programs and services that help institutions improve educational quality, administrative and financial performance, student outcomes, and institutional visibility. Founded in 1956, CIC conducts the largest annual conferences of college and university presidents and of chief academic officers in the United States.

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

• CIC's grants, like the $55,926 NetVUE grant to Bard College, provide significant financial support for vocational and educational initiatives.
• The appointment of influential leaders to the CIC Board, such as President Kathleen Harring, can drive strategic vision and enhance the organization's influence.
• Collaborations with media and community projects, such as the partnership with Latest TV CIC, can increase visibility and community engagement.

What critics are saying

• The reliance on grants and external funding could pose financial instability if such sources diminish.
• The broad scope of CIC's initiatives may dilute focus and resources, potentially impacting the effectiveness of individual projects.

What makes CIC unique

• CIC's focus on supporting independent colleges through grants and vocational initiatives sets it apart from other educational councils.
• The organization’s ability to attract innovative leaders like Stef Kulik and Ellen Peters highlights its commitment to strategic growth and research.
• CIC's involvement in diverse community projects, such as THEPLAT4ORM CIC's EM3RGE, showcases its broad impact beyond traditional educational settings.