For seven decades, the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities has served as the unified voice of New York's independent higher education — expanding access, strengthening campuses, and championing student success.
CICU's member campuses award a majority of the state's degrees and serve as a formal liaison to the New York State Board of Regents, NYSED, SUNY, and CUNY — shaping higher education policy across the sector.
In times of uncertainty and change, it is more important than ever that we work collaboratively — championing student aid, institutional support, and forward-thinking advocacy — so our sector remains an engine of opportunity, equity, and progress.
This year marks an extraordinary milestone as we celebrate 70 years of advancing opportunity through New York's independent higher education sector. For seven decades, CICU has served as the unified voice of our member institutions — championing policies that expand access, strengthen campuses, and support student success.
In a year defined by both challenge and change, CICU remains focused on advocacy that protects access to higher education, strengthens student aid, and responds to an evolving federal and state policy landscape. As we reflect on our history, we are equally focused on the future — and on ensuring independent colleges continue to serve as engines of opportunity, growth, and community impact for generations to come.
As CICU celebrates its 70th anniversary, we reflect on a legacy built on the diverse strengths of our member institutions — from world-class research universities to specialized colleges and liberal arts institutions. Together, we navigate periods of profound change while demonstrating that a vibrant independent sector is essential to innovation, regional economies, and New York's status as a global leader in academic excellence.
As we look toward the future, CICU remains steadfast in its leadership and its collective voice, advocating for the policies and resources that ensure our campuses continue to thrive.
Students from across New York gathered in Albany, meeting with legislators in the Capitol to share how student aid shapes their ability to enroll and succeed. The day closed with a powerful rally featuring elected officials, opportunity-program leaders, and state higher education agencies — all reinforcing one message: student aid is essential to opportunity in New York.
The most impactful voices were the students themselves. By sharing their experiences and advocating for continued support — especially amid new federal loan challenges — they made a compelling case for action.
CICU welcomed presidents, campus leaders, and partners from across New York for a two-day gathering focused on the future of higher education — student access, workforce development, and the evolving policy landscape.
Secretary Duncan's keynote highlighted the importance of partnership and collaboration in expanding opportunity nationwide. The meeting also offered valuable engagement with state policymakers, reinforcing CICU's role in advancing policies that support students and strengthen institutions statewide.
As CICU marks its 70th anniversary, the Annual Meeting served as both a reflection on its legacy and a forward-looking conversation about the future of independent higher education.
CICU advanced legislation expanding this scholarship to independent-sector students for the first time since its 2015 creation — opening a vital program to students at private, non-profit colleges across New York.
0registered educator preparation programs across 73 campuses.
In response to federal changes to student-loan programs, CICU led statewide advocacy and helped secure inclusion of the NY RISES student-loan proposal in the Assembly's one-house budget. The fight isn't over — but meaningful progress has been made.
As Washington eliminated Grad PLUS loans, CICU partnered with NAICU and ACE — and 19 members met with 17 legislative offices in D.C. to educate lawmakers on the impact to higher education and the New York economy.
Modernizes the scope of podiatric practice, broadening what podiatrists can diagnose, treat, and prescribe as it relates to the foot and ankle.
Requires Title VI coordinators at New York colleges and universities, with clear, accessible reporting for students facing discrimination and uniform training for all students and employees.
CICU supported passage of legislation allowing combat veterans eligible for the Veterans Tuition Assistance Program (VTAP) to transfer their benefits to a spouse or child.
A cornerstone of CICU's outreach, YCS connects prospective students and families with New York's private, non-profit colleges — reframing the conversation around cost by highlighting affordability, value, and opportunity across member campuses.
Convened this year at the Culinary Institute of America, these gatherings connect campus leaders across government relations, enrollment, financial aid, academic affairs, and communications to exchange ideas and elevate effective practices.
Now in its 6th year (June & July 2026), the series delivers focused programming on the most pressing issues facing campuses — from DASNY resources and federal legislative updates to the CICU–Google AI partnership and employee benefits.
CICU's first-ever AI Summit brings together industry leaders and policy experts to explore the state of AI and emerging technologies in higher education. Attendance is included for all CICU members.