2025 State Councils Annual Conference Brings Together Leaders in Seattle
The 2025 State Councils Annual Conference took place April 13–15 in Seattle, Washington, and convened leaders from across the country for three days of learning, collaboration, and networking. As the centerpiece of CIC’s State Councils programming, the Annual Conference offers state executives and their staff a vital forum for professional development and the exchange of best practices to strengthen independent higher education in their states.
This year’s agenda featured a series of interactive educational sessions designed to equip participants with practical tools and strategies to better serve their member institutions. Attendees had the opportunity to connect with peers through structured discussions and informal networking events. The conference also highlighted the presentation of the Charles W.F. Foreman Award to Richard E. Bangert II, board emeritus of the Independent Colleges of Washington. The purpose of the award is to recognize an individual for truly exceptional leadership in support of the advancement of the work of their State Council and/or the national State Councils network.
CIC is grateful for the generous support of Academic Search, Credo, Element451, TIAA, and Verger Capital Management, whose contributions helped make the conference possible.
CIC Awards over $146,000 in Meeting the Moment Grants to Support Federal Policy Response Initiatives
CIC has awarded a total of $146,250 in Meeting the Moment grants to 15 state-based associations to support efforts that help independent colleges and universities respond proactively to the federal policy landscape.
Projects funded through the Meeting the Moment grants include efforts such as developing and sharing resources on federal policy changes, offering compliance training and professional development for campus leaders, engaging consultants to support strategic initiatives, and hosting events that bring member institutions together for peer learning.