Last fall, Academic Search, a leading executive search firm dedicated to higher education, proudly announced the establishment of the Academic Search Fund for Leadership Development through a donation of $1 million to be split equally between the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) and CIC. The organizations have each established permanent funds to enhance leadership development initiatives for their member presidents and institutional leaders.
“As a former AASCU and CIC president, I was a beneficiary of the professional development programs of both organizations,” said L. Jay Lemons, president of Academic Search. “Leadership in the academy today is extraordinarily challenging and the role that CIC and AASCU play in supporting presidents is more important than ever. Equally is our shared commitment with our parent organization AALI [American Academic Leadership Institute] for working with AASCU and CIC in helping to prepare the next generation of leaders in higher education.”
Through this endowment, Academic Search reaffirms its commitment to nurturing leaders in both public and private higher education institutions across the United States. AASCU and CIC stand as two of the major national higher education associations, each with a unique focus and mission. AASCU represents 350 public institutions dedicated to expanding student access, success, and opportunity. CIC is an association of more than 700 independent colleges and universities, state-based councils of independent colleges, and other higher education affiliates, focusing on supporting campus leaders and advancing institutional excellence. Together, these organizations work to address the needs of colleges and universities through the support of their leaders through regular programming and training.
“We are delighted to steward this generous gift as we prepare leaders to serve independent colleges and universities. Academic Search’s commitment to the success of our institutions is deeply appreciated,” said Marjorie Hass, president of CIC.
These funds from Academic Search will create new opportunities and advancements in leadership development within the higher education sector. It reflects Academic Search’s dedication to fostering leadership excellence and contributing to the continued growth and success of colleges and universities nationwide.
