Boston – The Association of Independent Colleges and Universities in Massachusetts (AICUM) honored Massachusetts Campus Compact at AICUM’s third annual gala on Monday, December 3th, attended by 400 guests, including college presidents, administrators and business leaders.

Based in Medford at Tufts University, Massachusetts Campus Compact is part of a nationwide coalition of more than 1,100 public and private colleges and universities, including 73 member campuses in Massachusetts. National Campus Compact represents 6 million student volunteers across the country committed to service and civic engagement.

The event also honored Massachusetts Congressman John F. Tierney, who received a lifetime achievement award for all his contributions in Congress, including most recently for his role in the passage of the College Cost Reduction Act; State Senator Robert O’Leary (D – Cape and Islands); and Kevin Murphy (D – Lowell) who, with O’Leary, serves as co-chair of the Joint Committee on Higher Education.

AICUM President Richard Doherty praised Campus Compact while presenting the award: “Through your programs, not only do students enrich their communities, but they enrich their own education.” The Executive Director of the Massachusetts Campus Compact, Barbara Canyes, accepted the award: “The success of our programs is a direct reflection of the support we receive from all the Massachusetts college campuses on which we are present,” said Canyes. “Their commitment to our organization and our mission makes it possible for students to experience the value of volunteerism, service learning and community service.”

AICUM, founded in 1967 by a group of independent college presidents, today comprises 56 degree-granting, accredited independent colleges and universities in the Commonwealth. It is the leading voice on public policy matters effecting independent colleges and universities in Massachusetts. AICUM plays a critical role in advocating for state and Federal funding for need-based student financial aid and addressing state and Federal legislative and regulatory issues.