A membership organization representing Vermont's 11 independent higher education institutions.
The Association of Vermont Independent Colleges (AVIC) is a membership industry organization serving 11 private higher education institutions in Vermont. Established in 1982, AVIC operates as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit with a board, executive, and administrative staff. The organization's mission is to strengthen the quality of higher education in Vermont, increase accessibility for students, foster cooperative efforts among member institutions, and support campus leaders in shaping public policy.
AVIC represents all ten regionally accredited private colleges in Vermont: Bennington College, Champlain College, Landmark College, Middlebury College, Norwich University, Saint Michael's College, School for International Training, Sterling College, Vermont College of Fine Arts, and Vermont Law & Graduate School. The organization also includes the Center for Cartoon Studies, which holds state approval to grant Master of Fine Arts degrees and certificates, though it is not regionally accredited.
AVIC works to inform decision-makers and the public about the role of independent colleges in Vermont's future, shape public policy, and strengthen the educational network. The organization focuses on attracting students who will contribute to Vermont's workforce and economic, civic, and cultural development, while ensuring students have the information and resources needed to attend college.