Federal Relations
At the national level, we work to maintain productive relationships with our congressional representatives and their offices. To accomplish this, we work with and through American Council on Education and National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities.
Advocacy vs. Lobbying
When interfacing with the different levels of government, our office is involved in advocacy. To understand the contrast between advocacy and lobbying, view the comparison below.
| Per request, provide assistance or advice to a legislative body | Form of advocacy |
| Supply non-partisan research or analysis | Directly influence to support or oppose a specific piece of legislation |
| Clarify the interests of TCU | Call to action for the public to express to their legislators their views on specific legislation |
What is ACE?
The American Council on Education (ACE) is a higher education association that represents the presidents and other key administrators of degree-granting institutions that includes two– and four-year colleges and public and private universities in the national government realm. The organization meets with representatives to address higher education issues with the ultimate goal of improving access for students and preparing them for success.
What is NAICU?
The National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU) is a higher education association that represents the voice of private nonprofit higher education institutions and organizations. NAICU meets with policy makers to express the needs of the higher education entities it represents.