AASCU 2023 Annual Conference
Engage with colleagues and subject matter experts for community, resources, and hope in the face of the challenges facing higher education.
Learn more.
Leading for Democracy: Reimagine, Reframe, Rebuild.
AASCU presidents and chancellors face a long list of challenges including declining enrollments, shifting demographics, budget cuts, faculty/staff morale, growing polarization in our campuses and communities, and deep skepticism about the value of a degree. With the headwinds facing higher education, it is clear we need courageous, responsible, accountable executive leadership. And it is clear that the only way through these trying times is to work together. AASCU’s Annual Conference presents a unique opportunity for presidents and chancellors to come together for community, for resources, and for hope.
Who should participate?
- Presidents & Chancellors
- Presidential Spouse/Partners
How will you benefit?
- Small- and large group community building and networking via affinity group meetings, roundtable discussions, open committee meetings, and receptions and meals
- Discussion-based, solutions-oriented workshops and concurrent sessions for participants to learn and share promising practices and gain national perspective from thought leaders
- Informative and inspiring plenary sessions meant to empower and equip future-focused leaders for democracy
- Rich and relevant programming for spouses and partners
- Ample networking and connecting opportunities in the heart of the Windy City
Program Highlights
Our conference is designed to support learning, networking, and reflecting.
- Inspiring plenary sessions focused on the unique value proposition of regional public institutions and how we tell the story of our collective impact, as well as trends impacting higher education, social justice and equity, updates from the Hill, and more
- Engaging workshops for participants to reflect, network, share promising practices and connect with thought leaders
- Networking and connecting opportunities during meals, receptions, committee meetings, and affinity group gatherings
SCHEDULE AT A GLANCE
This schedule is provided for informational purposes and is subject to change.
Saturday, November 4 |
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| 3–5 p.m. | Preconference Workshop: Becoming an Institution of Choice Facilitated by EAB
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| 3–5:15 p.m. | Preconference Workshop: Stewardship of Place: A U.S./Mexican Higher Education Partnership for Democracy and Global Citizenry
Binational Dialogue on Regional and Workforce Development & Stewardship of Place
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Sunday, November 5 |
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| 7:30 a.m.-12 p.m. | AASCU Board of Directors Meeting
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| 10 a.m.-2 p.m. | New Presidents Academy
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| 12-4:30 p.m. | TIAA Private Consultations |
| 2-4 p.m. | Council of State Representatives
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Women Presidents and Chancellors Program
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| Spouse/Partner Welcome and Networking: Embracing Wellbeing and Community
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| 4:30-6 p.m. | Welcome and Plenary Standing Together: Industry, Philanthropy and Higher Education at the Intersection of Cultural Wars and the Threats to DemocracyIntroductions:
Speakers:
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Resource Spotlight: AASCU’s American Democracy Project
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| 6:15-7:30 p.m. | Opening Reception Support provided by TIAA |
Monday, November 6 |
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| 7:30-8:30 a.m. | Focus Group Facilitated by Gray Associates
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LGBTQ Affinity Group
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| 8-8:30 a.m. | Exemplary Practice Session: Building a Future-Ready Institution: Harnessing AI and Micro-credentials Facilitated by Coursera
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| 8:30-9:30 a.m. | Committee on Professional Development
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Postsecondary Value Commission Task Force
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Advisory Committee on Membership
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Committee on Student Success
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| 9 a.m.–5 p.m. | TIAA Private Consultations |
| 9:45-11 a.m. | Plenary Session Higher Education’s Role in Protecting Our DemocracySpeakers:
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| Excellence & Innovation Award Presentation: We the People Award: Excellence in Civic Learning and Community Engagement
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| Resource Spotlight: PERIL
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| 10:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m. | Spouse/Partner: Crisis Communication
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| 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
CONCURRENT SESSIONS |
Presidential Leadership in Times of Crisis: Navigating Unrest in Higher Education Support provided by TIAA
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Reimagining the Carnegie Classifications: Update and What’s Next
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Bridging Divides: Challenges and Solutions to Today’s Campus Climate of Polarization and Hate
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| 12:30-1:45 p.m. | Lunch |
| 12:30-1:30 p.m. | Lunch Roundtables
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| 1:45-3 p.m. | Plenary Session Upholding Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Justice and BelongingIntroduction:
Speakers:
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| Excellence & Innovation Award Presentation: Sustainability and Sustainable Development (Comprehensive)
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| Excellence & Innovation Award Presentation: Sustainability and Sustainable Development (Innovative)
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| Resource Spotlight: Interfaith America
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| 3:15-4:15 p.m.
CONCURRENT SESSIONS |
Aligning Mission, Vision, and Values Through Data-Informed Strategic Enrollment Planning Support provided by RNL
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| Standing Together, Achieving More: Regional Universities Overcoming Challenges and Expanding Their Impact Through a Public-Private Partnership Support provided by Academic Partnerships
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| How to Manage and Grow Academic Programs Support provided by Gray Associates
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| 4:30-5:45 p.m. | Plenary Session Surviving and Thriving in the Toughest Job in America
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| Excellence & Innovation Award Presentation: Stewards of Place
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| Excellence & Innovation Award Presentation: Student Success and College Completion
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| Resource Spotlight: Constructive Dialogue Institute
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| 6-7 p.m. | Evening Reception Support provided by Academic Partnerships |
| 7-9 p.m. | Dinner Support provided by Academic Search |
Tuesday, November 7 |
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| 7:30-8:30 a.m. | Committee on International Education
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Millennium Leadership Initiative Executive Steering Committee
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Committee on Research (Closed Meeting)
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| Rural Presidents and Chancellors Committee | |
| 8:30-9:30 a.m. | Breakfast |
Spouse/Partner Role in Fundraising
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AASCU Consulting Meeting (Breakfast)
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African American Presidents and Chancellors Affinity Group (Breakfast)
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Asian American/Pacific Islander Affinity Group (Breakfast)
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Hispanic Presidents and Chancellors Affinity Group (Breakfast)
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| 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. | TIAA Private Consultations |
| 9:45-10:45 a.m. | Spouse/Partner Roundtables
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| 10-11 a.m. | Plenary Session Council of Presidents Annual Business Meeting Introduction:
Speakers:
What’s Happening on the Hill
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| 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
CONCURRENT SESSIONS |
What Is the Future of Student Success? Support provided by EAB
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A Time of Uncertainty and Transition in College Athletics
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| 12-3 p.m. | Spouse/Partner Group Activity: Chicago Dine Around |
| 12:30-2 p.m. | Luncheon President-to-Presidents Lecture Program and Distinguished Alumnus Award Presentation Support provided by EllucianIntroductions:
President-to-President Lecture:
Distinguished Alumnus Award:
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| Excellence & Innovation Award Presentation: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership
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| Excellence & Innovation Award Presentation: International Education
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| Excellence & Innovation Award Presentation: Leadership Development and Diversity
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Resource Spotlight: Aspen
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| 2:15-3:15 p.m.
CONCURRENT SESSIONS |
Championing Access: How One University Drives Impact Across Modalities Support provided by Wiley University Services
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Achieving the Vision Requires a Strong and Cohesive Leadership Team
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| 3:15-4:45 p.m. | Closing Plenary and Transfer of the Gavel: Looking Ahead: Finding Hope and Reimagining the Future of Higher EdIntroduction:
Speakers:
Transfer of the Gavel Introduction:
Participants:
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| 5-6 p.m. | Closing Reception Support provided by The Registry |
TIAA wealth management consultants will be available for private consultations on Nov. 5–7. If you are interested in meeting with an advisor, please reserve an appointment or sign up onsite at the TIAA Private Consultations table near the AASCU Registration Desk on Nov. 5-7 between the hours of 12–5 p.m.
Appointments are available:
- Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023 12–4 p.m. (The last appointment begins at 3 p.m.)
- Monday, Nov. 6, 2023 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (The last appointment begins at 3:30 p.m.)
- Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2023 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. (The last appointment begins at 3:30 p.m.)
Sunday, November 5 |
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| 2-4 p.m. | Spouse/Partner Welcome and Networking Embracing Wellbeing and Community Do not miss this opportunity to join colleagues for an informal meet and greet, participate in networking activities, learn who our colleagues are, discover roles/functions, and have fun over food and drinks!erts, Presidential Spouse, University of Maryland Eastern Shore
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Monday, November 6 |
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| 10:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. | Crisis Communication Join colleagues for open and candid conversation with their spouses/partners surrounding hot topics regarding crisis communications.
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Tuesday, November 7 |
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| 8:30–9:30 a.m. | Spouse/Partner Role in Fundraising This session will help spouses/partners to better understand the various elements and their role regrading Fundraising and how to best to support the president/chancellor.
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| 9:45–10:45 a.m. | Spouse/Partner Roundtables These roundtables will help spouses/partners better understand Title IX, athletic team common pitfalls, and how best to support the president/chancellor.
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| 12-3 p.m. | Spouse/Partner Group Activity: Chicago Dine Around |
Featured Speakers
Heidi M.
Anderson
President
University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Claire
Babineaux-Fontenot
Chief Executive Officer
Feeding America
Daniella
Ballou-Aares
CEO and Co-Founder
Leadership Now Project
Roger
Best
President
University of Central Missouri
Marilyn
Braithwaite-Hall
Presidential Spouse
University of the Virgin Islands
José A.
Cabrales
Vice President and Chief Operating Officer
AASCU
Alberto J.
Cardelle
President
State University of New York at Oneonta
Monique
Carroll
Director of Intercollegiate Athletics
Chicago State University (IL)
Arturo
Cherbowski Lask
Executive Director
Santander Universities
Ryan
Craig
Managing Director
Achieve Partners
Karrie G.
Dixon
Chancellor
North Carolina Central University
Clarisol A.
Duque
State Director
Senator Richard J. Durbin (D-IL)
Zakiya Smith
Ellis
Principal
EducationCounsel
Kristin G.
Esterberg
Chancellor
University of Washington Bothell
Andy
Feinstein
President
University of Northern Colorado
Rachel
Frick-Cardelle
Presidential Spouse
State University of New York at Oneonta
Mildred
García
Chancellor
California State University System
Luis Armando
González Placencia
Executive Secretary General
National Association of Universities and Higher Education Institutions, ANUIES
Julie
Hall
Deputy Athletic Director/Senior Woman Administrator
Chicago State University (IL)
Kenichi
Iwama
Chancellor
Indiana University Northwest
Theodore “Ted”
Johnson
Senior Advisor
New America
Jann L.
Joseph
President
Georgia Gwinnett College
Brendan
Kelly
President
University of West Georgia
Colin
Koproske
Managing Director
EAB
Fernando
León-García
President
International Association of University Presidents
Luis
Maldonado
Vice President, Government Relations and Policy Analysis
AASCU
Jamie
Merisotis
President and CEO
Lumina Foundation
Tomás D.
Morales
President
California State University, San Bernardino
Timothy
Mottet
President Emeritus
Colorado State University-Pueblo
Peter O.
Nwosu
President
State University of New York at Oswego
Scott
Nycum
Vice President, Inclusion, Diversity & Giving
General Dynamics Information Technology
Ruth
O’Brien
Fundraising Consultant
University of Chicago (IL)
Eboo
Patel
Founder and President
Interfaith America
Cynthia L.
Pemberton
President
Lewis-Clark State College (ID)
DeRionne
Pollard
President
Nevada State University
Leon
Roberts
Presidential Spouse
University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Ronald S.
Rochon
President
University of Southern Indiana
Andrea
Sáenz
President and CEO
The Chicago Community Trust
E. Joseph
Savoie
President
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Zaldwaynaka
Scott
President
Chicago State University (IL)
Aundra
Shields
Presidential Spouse
Southern University and A&M College (LA)
Zulma R.
Toro
President
Central Connecticut State University
Reyna
Torres Mendivil
Consul General
Consulate General of Mexico in Chicago
John Patrick
Walsh
Director of Federal Relations and Policy Analysis
AASCU
Charles L.
Welch
President and CEO
AASCU
Alisa
White
President
Sam Houston State University (TX)
impact
2022 conference survey says…
4.8/5
Rating for the quality of speakers.
87%
Percent of attendees that felt more connected to their colleagues after attending.
4.7/5
Rating for relevance of topics and issues covered.
“I left feeling renewed and committed to keep working for our students.”
“Excellent conference and topics. It was great to have an opportunity to connect with key leaders and issues facing higher ed.”
Registration Fees
| Attendee Type | Early Bird Aug. 14- Sept. 14 |
Regular After Sept. 14 |
|---|---|---|
| Member President/Chancellor | $1,150 | $1,250 |
| Non-Member President/Chancellor | $2,150 | $2,250 |
| Former President/Chancellor, AASCU Consultants | $900 | $1,000 |
| Spouse/Partner (includes spouses/partners of former presidents/chancellors) | $800 | $900 |
- All plenary sessions, concurrent sessions, workshops, focus groups, and networking sessions
- Meal functions (reception on Sunday evening; breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Monday; and breakfast, lunch, and reception on Tuesday)
- Access to the meeting app and all meeting resources
- The opportunity to take advantage of AASCU-negotiated discounted room rates at the Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park
All changes and cancellations must be in writing.
Participants who cannot attend are eligible for partial refunds as follows:
- Cancellation requests received until Friday, September 8, 2023 (5pm ET) will be charged a $250 administrative fee.
- Cancellations received after 5 pm (ET) Friday, September 8, 2023, through Friday, October 13, 2023, 5 p.m. (ET) will incur a $500 cancellation fee.
- Cancellations received after 5 p.m. (ET) on October 13, 2023, and no-shows are not eligible for refunds.
All refunds will be issued within 30 days of the receipt of the refund request. When writing to cancel or submit a refund request, please email meetings@aascu.org and include “AC23 Cancellation” in the subject line.
- All refunds will be issued within 21 days of the receipt of the refund request.
- Please indicate to whom and where the refund should be issued.
accommodations
Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park
200 North Columbus Drive
Chicago, IL 60601
Reservations
Book early to receive the group rate. Once rooms sell out, the group rate may not be available.
Sleeping room options are available at the group rate of $219 for single and double occupancy.
The Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park boasts some of the city’s most spacious and impeccably appointed guestrooms. Whether you are enjoying a city, park, or lake view, the sights of Chicago will take your breath away.
Reserve online at Fairmont Chicago to reserve hotel accommodations, you can also reserve suites and upgrades at a higher negotiated rate or call the hotel directly at 1.866.540.4408.
Reservations should be confirmed prior to Friday, Oct. 20, 2023. Reservation requests after Oct. 20 will be accepted as space is available and at market rates.
All rooms are subject to taxes, which is currently 17.40 % per room per night will be charged. Taxes and assessments are subject to change.
Help keep meeting costs down – when booking in the AASCU block, guests take advantage of negotiated discounted room rates and help us negotiate the best rates for future events. Don’t miss out on this luxury downtown property and take full advantage of valuable networking opportunities across the property.
Early Departure Fee
In the event a guest checks out prior to reserved check-out date, the Hotel will add an early checkout fee to the guest’s account. Guests wishing to avoid an early checkout fee should advise the Hotel one business day prior to arrival.
Cancellation Policy
Should you need to cancel your reservation, notice must be given to the hotel at least 24 hours in advance of your arrival date to avoid a one-night deposit fee.
Check-In / Check-Out
Guest accommodation will be available at 3 p.m. on arrival day and reserved until 12:00 p.m. on departure day.
Note: All requests for early check-in are REQUESTS and may or may not be accommodated.
Any attendee who would like to be considered for late checkout should inquire at the front desk on the day of departure or at the time of reservation.
The Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is 18 miles northwest and Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is 12 miles southwest from the Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park.
Visit ALLSafeandWell.com for details and information regarding the measures the hotel is taking to safeguard, protect and care for you during your visit
AASCU is committed to the health, safety and well-being of all attendees at our gatherings. We follow all local rules and CDC guidance and closely monitor conditions related to COVID-19 and other public health emergencies. Attendees at all AASCU events agree to adhere to the following health and safety protocols.
Before leaving home
- AASCU strongly encourages all participants to be fully vaccinated. The CDC Vaccines website provides definitions of “Fully Vaccinated” and “Up To Date”.
- Stay home if you feel unwell or have any COVID-19 symptoms or test positive for COVID-19. We recommend attendees wear masks while traveling to and from the event and follow COVID-19 safety practices in the days leading up to the event.
- We strongly encourage attendees to take a rapid antigen COVID-19 test before traveling and before arriving to AASCU convenings.
Onsite during the event
- Masks are recommended and will be available at the registration desk.
- If you are experiencing cold or COVID-19 symptoms please be respectful and wear a mask.
- Self-administered COVID-19 rapid antigen tests will be available at the registration desk. We encourage participants test themselves upon arrival before joining the conference.
- Wash hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
- Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands
- Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. Throw used tissues in the trash.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipes.
- If you feel unwell, develop symptoms of COVID-19, or test positive for COVID-19 at any time during the convening, seek medical care and do not attend the meals or gatherings.
- If you test positive during the conference, please notify AASCU staff by emailing meetings@aascu.org.
AASCU reserves the right to modify these policies and procedures at any time given the rapidly changing nature of any current and ongoing public health emergencies.
All meetings and conferences sponsored by AASCU are inclusive and accessible to all individuals, including individuals with disabilities. Please request accessibility services when you register and contact us if you need auxiliary aids or services.
Request services.
Fairmont Chicago strives to meet the needs of its guests with disabilities. The hotel has accessible rooms and assistive devices, please contact the hotel at (312) 565.8000 if you have any special requests relating to your disability or need any additional accessibility information about the hotel’s facilities and services.
By participating in an AASCU conference, you are automatically authorizing AASCU to use your name, photograph, voice, or another likeness for purposes related to the mission of AASCU, including but not limited to publicity, marketing, websites, social media vehicles, and any other AASCU-related electronic forms or media for the promotion of AASCU and its various programs.
2023 Annual Conference Partners
Questions about the 2023 Annual Conference? Let us know.
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