Independent Colleges and Universities of Missouri
ICUM brings together Missouri’s independent colleges and universities to speak with one voice on issues of importance to higher education and to our students. We actively engage policy makers and members of the Missouri General Assembly to strengthen, to protect and to advocates for public policies that promote the vibrant and thriving higher educational network that we now enjoy in Missouri.
ICUM strongly support legislation to increase financial aid opportunities for our students. In 1971, our members led the effort to create our state’s first need-based financial assistance program, the Missouri Student Grant Program. ICUM went on to work with representatives of public institutions and Coordinating Board for Higher Education to develop what is now the state’s primary financial assistance program for postsecondary students. The highly successful Access Missouri Financial Aid Program provides scholarships to Missouri students with demonstrated financial need.
ICUM also seeks to protect the autonomy that independent institutions have always enjoyed. Finally, ICUM advocates for a holistic approach to provide more support for higher education of all forms in Missouri.
Advocacy
Keep Me In College
ICUM partners with an all inclusive coalition called Keep Me In College. Our advocates have successfully fought to protect the Access Missouri program, which provides need-based financial aid to financially deserving students. Students, faculty, staff and parents are encouraged to advocate on behalf of Keep Me In College. The coalition believes it is now time to expand and focus more broadly on improving all aspects of higher education, both in Jefferson City and in Washington, DC. Joining the effort will cost your nothing but it could keep you and your friends in college!