Insights & Research Hub

Published between 2016 and 2025 by the Council of Independent Colleges, the Digest of Recent Research highlighted timely research and practical resources with a focus on topics of relevance to presidents and other leaders of independent colleges and universities.

CIC would like to highlight a sampling of member institutions that shared with us that they are launching new programs, majors, or scholarships. There is innovation in our sector, and we are pleased to pass on some great examples that were sent to us.

Find a summary of updates and upcoming things to look forward to from CIC’s networks.

Read about recent news, initiatives, and programs at CIC and click on the programs to learn more.

The 2025 Institute for Chief Academic Officers took place in November in Indianapolis, IN. This year’s theme was Building Places of Promise: Unlocking Student Success, and programming focused on uniting around foundational values—mission, passion, and purpose—to create student-centered environments where students can thrive through resilience and belonging.

The 2026 Presidents Institute took place in January in Orlando, FL. This year’s theme was A Deeper Purpose, and participants explored strategies that empower campuses to fulfill their missions and remain resolute in serving the common good.

The CIC members in attendance at the Annual Business Meeting on January 7, 2026, voted to add a sixth CIC membership category for Graduate Members.

CIC is pleased to announce the election of seven members to the Board of Directors, and four existing directors named to new roles on the Executive Committee of the Board.

Campus leadership support and development is a key CIC priority. This page accumulates a growing list of resources primarily intended for first-time presidents of a CIC type college and university.

The Tuition Exchange and CIC announce a new partnership that will simplify the scholarship application process for employees and their families at participating institutions.

The Tuition Exchange and CIC announce a new partnership that will simplify the scholarship application process for employees and their families at participating institutions.

Lilly Endowment Inc. awarded CIC a $1,765,000 grant to continue two highly successful leadership development initiatives for college and university presidents, the Presidential Vocation and Institutional Mission program and the Presidential Renewal program.

Find a list of new CIC members since February 2024.

The CIC Board of Directors announced the extension of Marjorie Hass’ contract as president through 2030.

CIC is pleased to introduce staff members who have joined us over the past few months.

CIC would like to highlight a sampling of member institutions that shared with us that they had record numbers in their graduating classes or program outcomes.

CIC would like to highlight a sampling of member institutions that shared with us that they are celebrating a milestone in their institution’s history.

CIC would like to highlight a sampling of member institutions that shared with us that they are launching new programs, majors, or scholarships.

In Spring 2025, new Carnegie Classifications were released. Read more about the updated framework and implications for CIC members.

Every three years, CIC administers a survey to member presidents to better understand their needs and how CIC can best support them. The latest survey was conducted in Spring 2025.

In response to CIC member data and requests for more information about ongoing topics in the sector, CIC hosted one webinar to meet the moment since the Winter 2025 Independent newsletter publication.

CIC’s Solution Center marketplace is built to assist CIC member institutions in finding the best vendors to fit their needs.