AAC&U Announces Appointment of Cathy Brigham as Vice President for Member Engagement

Washington, DC—The American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) announced today the appointment of Cathy Brigham as Vice President for Member Engagement, effective February 10. In this role, she will lead the development and implementation of strategic programs to grow membership in the association, strengthen member engagement, and enhance the overall member experience.

“Cathy is a visionary leader with deep knowledge of higher education, broad experience in nonprofit and campus environments, and a proven track record of building strong relationships with external constituents,” said AAC&U President Lynn Pasquerella. “I am thrilled to welcome her to the leadership team and look forward to working alongside her to serve our members and to advance the association’s mission at this critical moment for higher education.”

Brigham comes to AAC&U from the College Board, where she was Executive Director for Higher Education Academic Outreach. Previously, Brigham served as Director of Academic Programs at the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning and as Dean of the College of Adult Education at Concordia University. She has held academic appointments at Concordia University Texas, Concordia University Wisconsin, St. Edward’s University, and Indiana University. Brigham holds both a master’s degree and a PhD in folklore and ethnomusicology from Indiana University and a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies from Miami University.

“I have long admired the work of AAC&U and have relied on their advocacy on behalf of liberal education for my entire career,” Brigham said. “Now is the time to join the effort and support this advocacy. I am honored to be a member of a team working to ensure that all students have access to lives of meaning and purpose.”

About AAC&U

The American Association of Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) is a global membership organization dedicated to advancing the democratic purposes of higher education by promoting equity, innovation, and excellence in liberal education. Through our programs and events, publications and research, public advocacy, and campus-based projects, AAC&U serves as a catalyst and facilitator for innovations that improve educational quality and equity and that support the success of all students. In addition to accredited public and private, two-year and four-year colleges and universities, and state higher education systems and agencies throughout the United States, our membership includes degree-granting higher education institutions around the world as well as other organizations and individuals. To learn more, visit www.aacu.org.