Higher education association closing: black caucus to determine future

Black Issues in Higher Education, April 21, 2005

WASHINGTON

After nearly four decades leading the national movement to improve higher education, the American Association for Higher Education (AAHE) will cease operations later this year, according to its board of directors. In a statement to AAHE members, board chairwoman Dr. Bernadine Chuck Fong, president of Foothill College, said, "Despite vigorous efforts, president Clara M. Lovett and the board concluded that the organization no longer has the resources to continue its historic leadership role in higher education."

Meanwhile, Dr. David Taylor, chairman-elect of the AAHE Black Caucus, said that a conference call was held on April 1 to discuss the future of the caucus. "We are not necessarily rolling over," Taylor said, noting that the Hispanic Caucus has already organized into a separate entity. Taylor said the Black Caucus will meet in June to further discuss its future.

"The spirit of AAHE must and will continue," said Lovett, adding that plans are under way to continue the association's work in assessment, the scholarship of teaching and learning, electronic portfolios, campus programs and other initiatives under the leadership of other associations and academic institutions. She said that discussions are already under way with the Lumina Foundation concerning relocation of the BEAMS (Building Engagement and Attainment of Minority Students) Project and with Heldref Publications, publisher of Change magazine. Since 1985, AAHE has provided editorial leadership for the magazine.

More information will be posted on the AAHE Web site at <www.aahe.org>.