AACC’s redesigned commission structure reflects the evolving needs of community colleges and the leaders who serve them. Grounded in the Resilient by Design framework, the commissions provide strategic, future‑focused guidance on the most critical challenges and opportunities facing the sector—strengthening institutional resilience, advancing student success, aligning education with the future of work, and building leadership capacity for long‑term impact. Apply for a commission by May 8, 2026.
Starting July 1, AACC will have six commissions authorized by the AACC Board. Each commission will consist of an average of 32 people from member institutions who are CEOs or administrators.
The commissions are:
- Commission on the Future of Work
- Commission on Institutional and Financial Resilience
- Commission on Professional Learning and Leadership Capacity
- Commission on Research, Data, and Strategic Narrative
- Commission on Small, Rural and Regional Resilience
- Commission on Student Agency and Student Success, Learning Pathways, and Wellbeing
Purpose of Commissions
AACC commissions are established to advance the Association’s strategic priorities and to help member colleges navigate a rapidly changing higher education, workforce, and policy environment. Reflecting a more integrated, future‑focused advisory structure, the commissions accomplish the following:
- Provide forward‑looking, actionable advice to the AACC Board and staff.
- Strengthen alignment between member expertise, staff work, and association priorities.
- Create focused forums for cross‑cutting, solution‑oriented dialogue.
- Encourage collaboration across community colleges, systems, and external partners.
- Increase meaningful engagement and leadership opportunities for AACC members.
- Support leadership development and capacity building within the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I get on a commission?
AACC will alert the field via electronic newsletters and social media when commissions are accepting applications. Those interested in serving must submit application forms, which will be housed online.
Commission members are chosen by the AACC Board chair-elect annually in May/June. Those selected will begin serving in July of that year.
Commission members appointed by the chair-elect must represent institutions that are current members of AACC.
If I am not a CEO, can I be nominated as an institutional member?
Institutional members on commissions must be CEOs or campus leaders. In some cases, vice presidents and provosts will be considered. However, affiliated council representatives can be employed in many different areas.
How long are commission terms for institutional members and affiliated council representatives?
Commissioners designated as institutional members serve for three years. Affiliated council representatives serve an annual term and must be reappointed each year.
When are commission meetings held?
The commissions meet in person twice a year, once in the fall and once in the spring in conjunction with the AACC Convention. Quarterly virtual meetings as needed.