AICUM Board Names Cambridge College President Deborah C. Jackson as Chair

BOSTON – The Board of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM) voted to appoint Cambridge College President Deborah C. Jackson as its Chair during the Board’s April 30, 2015 meeting. AICUM represents 59 independent colleges and universities throughout Massachusetts, including Cambridge College, a leader in adult higher education.

In May 2011, Jackson became the fourth president of Cambridge College, a private, nonprofit institution that prides itself on providing academically excellent, time-efficient and affordable higher education for a diverse population of adult learners. 

“I’m honored to be chosen to lead AICUM’s board, and I look forward to the work ahead,” said Jackson. “The Commonwealth’s breadth of private colleges means opportunities for students of all backgrounds in this state – from the adult learning we offer at Cambridge College to programs for students with a range of backgrounds, interests and needs. Our diverse roster of independent colleges is a point of pride for Massachusetts.”

Jackson succeeds Lynn Pasquerella, president of Mount Holyoke College, whose term as Chair expires at the end of May, 2015.

“We thank President Pasquerella for her outstanding service to the AICUM Board, and we greatly look forward to everything that President Jackson has to offer in the years ahead,” said AICUM president Richard Doherty. “Through her work leading Cambridge College, which focuses on adult learners, President Jackson knows very well the unique value that private colleges and universities offer to Massachusetts residents. The institution she leads is a prime example of the kinds of opportunities AICUM’s diverse range of member colleges bring to residents across the state who dream of completing a higher education.”  

AICUM serves as the leading voice on public policy matters facing independent colleges and universities in Massachusetts, and is a leading advocate for college affordability and increased state and federal funding for need-based student financial aid, among other issues.

Jackson’s position as Chair will be effective June 1, 2015.

###

The Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM) was founded by independent college presidents and today comprises 59 degree-granting, accredited independent colleges and universities in the Commonwealth.  It is the leading voice on public policy matters affecting independent colleges and universities in Massachusetts. AICUM plays a critical role in advocating for state and federal funding for need-based student financial aid, research and addressing state and Federal legislative and regulatory issues.