Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Advocating for Independent Higher Education in New York
The CICU (CICU) has been a steadfast advocate for higher education in New York since 1956. We represent the public policy interests of New York's private, nonprofit colleges and universities, working to ensure access to quality education through fairness, equity, and humanity. Our organization collaborates with member institutions, policymakers, and stakeholders to advance legislation that supports student success, including funding for student aid programs like TAP and Bundy Aid. With over 100 member institutions educating nearly 500,000 students annually, we serve as a vital liaison between independent colleges and state education authorities. Our advocacy efforts focus on opportunity and equity, strengthening campus-community partnerships, and promoting the unique value of independent higher education.Through research, data analysis, and policy development, we help shape the future of higher education in New York. Our team of experts provides resources for prospective students, facilitates industry partnerships, and coordinates initiatives to improve graduation rates and workforce readiness. We champion diversity, equity, and inclusion as drivers of innovation in higher education. Our strategic partnerships with organizations like the Council of Governing Boards amplify our impact across the state. With a proven track record of policy influence and institutional support, we remain committed to advancing educational excellence for all New Yorkers.
Services
State and Federal Advocacy
Research and Data Analysis
Student Resources
Policy Development
Institutional Partnerships
Details
- Year established: 1956
Highlights and features
- We represent over 100 independent colleges and universities across New York State
- Our advocacy has secured critical funding for student aid programs since 1956
- We provide data-driven research to support institutional effectiveness and policy development
- Our partnerships enhance educational opportunities and workforce development initiatives
- We champion diversity, equity, and inclusion across all higher education sectors
Services
State and Federal Advocacy
We advocate for legislative and budgetary priorities that support independent higher education institutions. Our efforts focus on securing funding for student aid programs, research initiatives, and capital investments. We work closely with state and federal policymakers to develop education policies that promote access, equity, and institutional sustainability.
Research and Data Analysis
We conduct comprehensive research on higher education trends, student outcomes, and policy impacts. Our data-driven analyses inform advocacy strategies and institutional decision-making. We produce reports on economic impact, enrollment patterns, and workforce development to support evidence-based policymaking for New York's independent colleges and universities.
Student Resources
We provide information about college access, financial aid opportunities, and the application process for New York's independent institutions. Our resources help prospective students understand educational options and navigate financial aid programs like TAP and Bundy Aid. We also promote initiatives to improve graduation rates and student success outcomes.
Institutional Partnerships
We facilitate partnerships between colleges, universities, and industry stakeholders to enhance educational programs and workforce development. Our collaborative initiatives connect institutions with corporate partners, government agencies, and community organizations to create internship opportunities, research partnerships, and community engagement programs that benefit students and local economies.
Policy Development
We develop policy recommendations to address challenges facing independent higher education. Our work focuses on improving student aid programs, expanding mental health workforce development, addressing teacher shortages, and promoting economic development through campus investments. We collaborate with member institutions to create solutions that address sector-wide challenges and opportunities.
People
Lola W. Brabham
President
President Lola W. Brabham leads CICU's advocacy efforts for New York's independent colleges. With extensive experience in education policy, she represents institutional interests before state and federal lawmakers. Her leadership focuses on expanding access to higher education and promoting policy reforms that support student success.
Questions
What does CICU do for New York's colleges?
We advocate for policy reforms and funding that support independent colleges, represent institutional interests to policymakers, and facilitate collaborations that enhance educational quality and access.
How can students benefit from CICU's work?
We promote student aid programs like TAP and Bundy Aid, provide college search resources, and advocate for policies that improve graduation rates and workforce preparation for New York students.
What advocacy areas does CICU prioritize?
Our key priorities include student aid funding, equity in education access, campus-community partnerships, mental health workforce development, and economic development through institutional investments.
How does CICU support institutional research?
We conduct and publish research on higher education trends, economic impact, enrollment patterns, and policy effectiveness to inform decision-making and advocacy strategies for member institutions.
What partnerships does CICU facilitate?
We connect colleges with corporate partners, government agencies, and community organizations to create internship programs, research collaborations, and workforce development initiatives that benefit students and local economies.
