The following is a statement from the Association of American Universities welcoming Tufts University to its membership:
The Association of American Universities today announced that Tufts University has joined the association. The addition of this leading research university brings AAU’s membership total to 66 institutions – 64 American and two Canadian members.
“Tufts University has long been one of our nation’s most distinguished universities, and we are very proud to welcome Tufts to AAU,” said AAU President Barbara R. Snyder. “AAU’s members are at the vanguard of scientific and educational excellence, and Tufts is an important addition to our ranks. We look forward to working with President Monaco and his team at Tufts as we advance the causes of higher education, scientific inquiry, and economic innovation.”
“The institutions that make up AAU excel at combining research and education to positively impact the lives of their students, communities, and nation,” noted AAU Board Chair and Brown University President Christina H. Paxson. “We welcome Tufts to AAU and applaud the work of the faculty, staff, and students in building a truly world-class institution.”
“Every day, Tufts makes a positive difference in the world and helps to address the great challenges of our time through its teaching, research, and people, especially by nurturing the next generation of world leaders and innovators,” said Tufts President Anthony P. Monaco. “Joining AAU is a great honor that enhances our impact by placing us in the company of like-minded and similarly driven universities that are changing the world and driving innovation in our society.”
Peter Dolan, chair of the Tufts Board of Trustees, said the accomplishment reflects years of commitment and investment by the university to support its research mission, resulting in accomplishments that have been acknowledged by its peer research universities.
“With its selection to join AAU, Tufts is being recognized as one of the premier institutions in the world, a high-impact contributor of innovation and new discoveries that contribute to a brighter world,” said Dolan. “As an alumnus, parent, and long-time supporter of the university, I know I speak for our community when I say it’s a great day for Tufts and a sign of more great things to come.”
Membership in AAU is by invitation only and is based on an extensive set of quantitative indicators and qualitative judgments that assess the breadth and quality of a university’s research, graduate, and undergraduate education programs.
Founded in 1900, the Association of American Universities is composed of America’s leading research universities. AAU’s 66 research universities transform lives through education, research, and innovation.
Our member universities earn the majority of competitively awarded federal funding for research that improves public health, seeks to address national challenges, and contributes significantly to our economic strength, while educating and training tomorrow’s visionary leaders and innovators.
AAU member universities collectively help shape policy for higher education, science, and innovation; promote best practices in undergraduate and graduate education; and strengthen the contributions of leading research universities to American society.