Wrighton assumed his new responsibilities last month at the NAICU 2002 Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. He will serve a three-year term as an at-large member of the 44-person board.

NAICU serves as the unified national voice of independent higher education and represents more than 900 private colleges and universities on policy issues with the federal government. The NAICU board sets the association's legislative, research and communications agendas and establishes guidelines for accomplishing its priorities.

"The Sept. 11 attacks and the recession have not only brought new challenges to college campuses, but have refocused policy priorities in Washington, D.C.," said NAICU President David L. Warren. "During this important time for independent higher education, I am pleased that Chancellor Wrighton has been elected by his peers to join the NAICU board.

"His leadership experience and keen understanding of policy and campus issues will be vital as we work with Congress and the Bush administration this year on the student aid, tax and regulatory issues that affect every one of our institutions."

Since Wrighton's appointment in 1995 as the University's 14th chancellor, the University has made unprecedented progress in student quality, campus improvements, resource development, curriculum, and international reputation.