The American Council on Education has appointed Dr. Steve O. Michael, Arcadia University Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, as a member of the ACE Commission on Leadership for the next two years.

The mission of the ACE Commission on Leadership is to bring together a group of distinguished individuals who over time will learn more about ACE’s strategies, programs and initiatives in the area of leadership and will provide guidance and advice so that ACE will reach its full potential as a higher education association serving public and private, two-year and four-year higher education institutions and related higher education entities. Participation in the Commission also provides networking opportunities for members an a mechanism for members to communicate with the ACE Board of Directors.

“It’s easy to see why ACE chose Provost Michael for this prestigious national commission,” says President Carl (Tobey) Oxholm III. “He has held positions of leadership in a very large state school and in a small, private, non-profit master’s granting institution, and he is at the forefront in building supportive bridges both ways with community colleges. He has lived his life pushing beyond boundaries, inspiring so many of us to follow his personal example. His gentle personality houses strength of character, vision, and determination—assets key to successful leaders. He will not only help the commission succeed in its work, but will model effective leadership for colleges and universities across the nation.”

This Commission on Leadership provides guidance for the ongoing development of ACE’s leadership programs. In addition, it serves as a forum for member presidents to explore issues and share insights and personal experiences in leadership, leadership development, and institutional effectiveness as they advise ACE about its programs and direction.

“ACE is grateful to the presidents and senior leaders who have agreed to serve on these advisory commissions,” said Gretchen M. Bataille, ACE Senior Vice President for Leadership and Lifelong Learning. “We know they bring insight into how ACE can best tackle the challenges facing American higher education today.”

Founded in 1918, ACE is the major coordinating body for all the nation’s higher education institutions, representing more than 1,600 college and university presidents, and more than 200 related associations, nationwide. It provides leadership on key higher education issues and influences public policy through advocacy.