Wednesday, March 29, 2017

Nota Bene: Virginia Private College Report

Advocacy for the purpose and value of private colleges has been an important part of my 26 years as a college president, and I am proud that Virginia Wesleyan College is a member of the Council of Independent Colleges in Virginia (CICV).

The CICV represents 28 accredited, nonprofit, independent colleges and universities in Virginia, working in the areas of public policy, cost containment and professional development, and providing support to its member institutions and students in the following areas:

  • Government relations: The CICV serves as the voice of Virginia’s independent higher education community before state agencies and legislators, and coordinates government relations activities for its members. It was instrumental in starting Virginia's Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG) program and managing advocacy for increased funding for VTAG and other programs assisting students at independent colleges.
  • Collaboration: The organization works with members and business partners to leverage collaborative opportunities that help campuses control operating costs and improve efficiency. Projects range from consortium purchasing agreements among member colleges to facilitating the state-wide Virginia Private College Week in July. Their Health Benefits Consortium provides quality and affordable health care for employees of its colleges.
  • Research: CICV staff work with member institutions, the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV), the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU), and national organizations to provide data analysis and higher education research services.
  • Public Relations: The CICV works closely with its members and the media to provide information and materials that highlight the contributions of private colleges to the Commonwealth.
I invite you to view the CICV's most recent Virginia Private College Report, which outlines the important role Virginia's private colleges and universities play in the Virginia higher education system and economy.

Thanks to each of you for helping to promote and further the important mission, values and programs of Virginia Wesleyan.