The Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Rhode Island is an alliance representing the eight independent institutions of higher learning within the State of Rhode Island. Designed to address common interests and concerns of independent colleges and universities within the state, the Association serves as the collective and unified voice of its member institutions. The mission and purposes of the Association include:

• Interpret for the general public the role and contributions of institutions of higher learning in Rhode Island;
• Serve as a central source of information for appropriate public and private agencies, as well as the general public;
• Maximize interrelationships between the independent and public institutions of higher learning within the state in providing optimal educational service to the people and students of Rhode Island;
• Encourage and facilitate consultation and cooperation among association members regarding academic programs, research, and community service;
• Support joint study with member institutions and appropriate public and private organizations;
• Review the current and future ability of independent institutions of higher education in Rhode Island to meet the educational needs of the state.
• Provide federal and state level policy and program leadership on higher education issues and coordinates the activities of Rhode Island’s independent colleges and universities.
• Encourage greater cooperation between Rhode Island colleges and universities and fellow institutions and educational organizations both in the New England and national arenas.

AICU Rhode Island represents its membership on the national level through the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU) and is one of 38 state associations nationwide working to strengthen and address the needs of independent higher education through advocacy and public policy.