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President Benton Named to Board of National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities

Andrew K. Benton, president of Pepperdine University, has been named to a three-year term as an at-large member of the board of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU). NAICU is the leading national association representing private higher education, serving as the unified voice of more than 1,000 independent college and university presidents, and specialized, state, and regional association executives. NAICU member institutions enroll nine out of every 10 students attending a private college or university in the United States.  

Since 1976, the association has represented private colleges and universities on policy issues with the federal government, such as those affecting student aid, taxation, and government regulation. “NAICU’s policy efforts on behalf of private higher education are vital,” says President Benton. “I am honored to serve on the board and look forward to this opportunity during these challenging times.”

Benton is in the company of three fellow university presidents also named at-large members of the board: Robert Coombe of the University of Denver, Elizabeth Fleming of Converse College, and Tracy Fitzsimmons of Shenandoah University.

Members of NAICU's board of directors set the association's agenda on federal higher education policy; actively encourage support of NAICU priorities and initiatives; and oversee the association's financial administration. Members typically serve three-year terms.

"NAICU's new board members and officers were selected by their peers because of their expertise in the field, proven leadership, and commitment to America's college students," says NAICU President David L. Warren. "They assume their responsibilities at a time of great challenge and transformation for American higher education."

For more information, visit the NAICU website.