Who We Are

The American Council on Education (ACE) is the only higher education organization that represents presidents and chancellors of all types of U.S. accredited, degree-granting institutions: community colleges and four-year institutions, private and public universities, and nonprofit and for-profit colleges. This cross-sector membership enables ACE to serve as higher education's unifying voice.

Since 1918, ACE has provided leadership and a unified voice on key higher education issues. Through advocacy, research and innovative programs, ACE represents the interests of more than 1,800 campus executives, as well as the leaders of higher education - related associations and organizations. Together, ACE member institutions serve 80% of today's college students. ACE speaks as higher education's voice in matters of public policy in Washington, DC, and throughout the nation, and provides vital programs, information and a forum for dialogue on key issues.

Membership in ACE
Membership in ACE is open to accredited, degree-granting colleges and universities and higher education associations within the United States. In most cases, the chief executives of these institutions represent their campuses in ACE activities.

Our Mission
ACE, the major coordinating body for all the nation's higher education institutions, seeks to provide leadership and a unifying voice on key higher education issues and to influence public policy through advocacy, research, and program initiatives.

Our Vision
ACE aims to foster greater collaboration and new partnerships within and outside the higher education community to help colleges and universities anticipate and address the challenges of the 21st century and contribute to a stronger nation and a better world.

Our Core Values
ACE values inclusiveness and diversity, recognizes higher education's responsibility to society, and embraces the belief that widespread access to excellent postsecondary educational opportunities is the cornerstone of a democratic society.