New Leadership Named for the Congressional Independent Colleges Caucus
The Congressional Independent Colleges Caucus (CICC) starts the 119th Congress with two new co-chairs, Representatives Ben Cline (R-VA) and Deborah Ross (D-NC). The pair are replacing Reps. David Joyce (R-OH) and Derek Kilmer (D-WA) as co-chairs.
Both Cline and Ross have multiple private, nonprofit institutions in their districts, with Cline’s Shenandoah Valley, VA district boasting nine institutions, while Ross’s Raleigh-area district has five. Cline’s predecessor, Rep. Robert Goodlatte (R-VA), co-founded the Caucus in 2017.
The CICC membership is among the most bipartisan caucuses in the House of Representatives, with the current roster being evenly split between Republicans and Democrats. The Caucus works to celebrate and support the important role that private, nonprofit colleges and universities play in advancing the economic, educational, social and cultural vitality of communities nationwide.
NAICU works closely with the CICC to develop briefings on timely topics throughout the year. Last year, for example, the caucus held briefings for congressional staff on the implications of the FAFSA delay on our sector’s fall enrollment and successful strategies for mapping campus to career opportunities for students. The caucus will also be highlighted during the ninth annual CICC reception on Capitol Hill during NAICU’s 2025 Annual Meeting & Advocacy Day.
“I’m delighted that Congressman Cline and Congresswoman Ross have stepped forward to lead the Caucus,” said NAICU President Barbara K. Mistick, D.B.A. “They are bringing new energy and ideas for caucus initiatives at a time when engagement between our sector and Members of Congress is more critical than ever. I look forward to working closely with them and their talented staff.”
More information about the caucus as well as a current roster of CICC members can be found on NAICU’s website.
For more information, please contact:
Suzanne Stokes Vieth