The Association of American Universities (AAU) is an organization comprising leading research universities in the United States and Canada. Founded in 1900, the AAU's primary aim is to enhance the quality and effectiveness of higher education and to strengthen the contributions of these institutions to the advancement of knowledge and society.
History
The AAU was established on February 28, 1900, by 14 American universities including:
These universities came together to promote higher education and research, aiming to improve the educational standards and research capabilities of their institutions.
Purpose and Activities
The AAU:
- Advocates for public policy that supports research and education in higher education.
- Provides a forum for the development and implementation of institutional and national policies.
- Facilitates collaboration among member institutions to enhance the exchange of ideas and resources.
- Works to increase federal funding for research and development.
Membership
Membership in the AAU is by invitation only, following a rigorous assessment process that evaluates the university's research and academic excellence. As of the latest information, the AAU includes 65 universities:
Membership can be both an honor and a challenge, as universities must maintain high standards to remain members.
Notable Initiatives
- Project on Faculty Diversity: Aims to increase the diversity of faculty in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
- Public Policy Advocacy: The AAU engages with Congress, federal agencies, and the White House to promote policies beneficial to research universities.
- Research Competitiveness: Works to ensure that federal funding for research remains robust and accessible to its members.
Impact
The AAU has significantly influenced:
- The development of federal science policy.
- The increase in research funding for universities.
- The establishment of standards for graduate education.
External Links
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