Vanderbilt University: Office of Federal Relations

The Higher Education Community
in Washington

Vanderbilt University's Office of Federal Relations is a leading participant in shaping higher education and research policy in Washington. Addressing issues such as federal funding for basic research, student aid, science policy, and even college athletics, Vanderbilt University's federal relations officers are active in numerous associations and councils dedicated to higher education research.

The Association of American Universities (AAU), the primary association to which Vanderbilt belongs, is an association of 62 leading public and private research universities. AAU focuses on issues important to research-intensive institutions such as: funding for research, research policy issues, and graduate and undergraduate education. AAU member universities are on the leading edge of innovation, scholarship, and solutions that contribute to our nation’s economy, security, and well-being.

The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), one of the primary associations to which the Vanderbilt University Medical Center belongs, represents all 133 accredited U.S. and 17 accredited Canadian medical schools; approximately 400 major teaching hospitals and health systems; and nearly 90 academic and scientific societies. Through its many programs and services, the AAMC strengthens our country’s medical care by supporting the entire spectrum of education, research, and patient care activities conducted by their member institutions.

Some other useful Websites for those interested in higher education and research policy are listed below.

Higher Education Policy and Administration