
WASHINGTON, DC (October 3, 2025)—Governing boards must act as fiduciaries for their institutions, not extensions of political parties or federal agencies.
October 1, 2025 – Watch this Webinar on Demand to explore the foundational role of board independence in preserving academic freedom and protecting the core mission of higher education, the pursuit of knowledge.

This statement was approved on November 10, 2023, by the Board of Directors of the Association of Governing Boards of Universities and Colleges. The following principles are intended to guide boards in the governance of colleges, universities, systems, and related foundations; inform them of their roles and responsibilities; and clarify their relationships with presidents, administration, faculty, and others involved in the governance process.

August 27, 2025 – Watch this Webinar On Demand to explore the foundational role of board independence in preserving mission-driven leadership, protecting institutional credibility, and fulfilling fiduciary responsibilities.

Board professionals play crucial planning, coordination, and support roles in the day-to-day life of college, university, system, and foundation governing boards.


