DePaul President Robert L. Manuel has been elected chair of the NAICU Board of Directors. (Jeff Carrion/DePaul University)DePaul President Robert L. Manuel has been elected chair of the Board of Directors for the
National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities. Manuel takes office July 1, 2025, and will serve a one-year term.
Founded in 1976, NAICU is the only national membership organization solely focused on representing private, nonprofit higher education on public policy issues in Washington, D.C. NAICU board members set the association’s agenda on federal higher education policy, actively encourage support for the association’s priorities and initiatives, and oversee the organization’s financial administration.
“Higher education is at an inflection point. The NAICU network is vital to ensuring the voices of private, nonprofit higher education — and every student we serve — are heard by policymakers across the country,” Manuel says. “This is a pivotal moment for higher education to reaffirm its essential role in fostering opportunity, advancing knowledge, and empowering individuals to reach their full potential and fuel our economy. I’m honored to work with the NAICU leadership and staff to help lead our many advocacy efforts.”
In addition to his service on NAICU’s board, Manuel is a member of the Cristo Rey Network Board of Directors, EAB President’s Advisory Board, and a board member of the Institute of International Education.
“Rob Manuel brings a visionary spirit and deep commitment to access and innovation in higher education,” says NAICU President Barbara K. Mistick. “His leadership as chair of the NAICU Board comes at a critical time for our sector, and I have no doubt he will guide our work with clarity, courage and purpose. I look forward to partnering with him as we advocate for the value and strength of America’s private, nonprofit colleges and universities.
“Throughout his career President Manuel has consistently prioritized expanding access and supporting the success of all students. His experience will be important as we continue to look to the future to better serve our students and campus communities,” Mistick adds.