Structure and Leadership
The International Association of Jesuit Universities (IAJU) is a global network of Jesuit higher education institutions. The association's structure and leadership are designed to foster collaboration, uphold the Jesuit educational mission, and facilitate strategic initiatives across its member universities.
Structure
The structure of the IAJU is meticulously designed to promote efficient governance and active participation from its diverse member institutions. The core structural components include:
General Assembly
The General Assembly is the highest decision-making body within the IAJU. It convenes representatives from all member institutions, ensuring that major decisions reflect the collective will and vision of the association. The General Assembly typically meets biennially to deliberate on significant issues, approve strategic plans, and elect members to the governing boards.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors oversees the implementation of policies and strategic plans approved by the General Assembly. This board comprises prominent leaders from member universities and is responsible for guiding the association's activities between General Assembly meetings. The Board meets regularly to discuss ongoing projects, new initiatives, and any issues requiring immediate attention.
Regional Associations
The IAJU is divided into several regional associations, each responsible for coordinating activities within their specific geographic areas. These regions include:
- The Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities in Africa and Madagascar (AJCU-AM)
- The Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities in Asia Pacific (AJCU-AP)
- The Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities in Europe (AJCU-E)
- The Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities in Latin America (AUSJAL)
- The Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities in the United States (AJCU-US)
Each regional association operates autonomously, organizing regional conferences, fostering collaboration among member institutions, and representing their region's interests within the broader IAJU framework.
Leadership
The leadership of the IAJU is characterized by a commitment to the Jesuit educational tradition, with leaders often being distinguished members of the Society of Jesus.
President
The President of the IAJU is the principal executive officer, tasked with leading the association and representing it on global stages. As of 2021, the President of the IAJU is Michael J. Garanzini, S.J., a prominent Jesuit priest known for his extensive experience in higher education and leadership. Previously, he served as the President of Loyola University Chicago and has been influential in promoting Jesuit values within academic institutions.
Executive Secretary
The Executive Secretary supports the President in the daily administration of the IAJU. This role includes ensuring effective communication between the Board of Directors, regional associations, and member institutions. The Executive Secretary also coordinates the implementation of the association's strategic initiatives and oversees the logistical aspects of IAJU events and meetings.
Regional Presidents
Each regional association within the IAJU is led by a Regional President. These leaders are responsible for championing the association's mission within their regions, fostering collaboration, and addressing region-specific issues. They play a critical role in bridging the gap between the global objectives of the IAJU and the local needs of member institutions.
Committees and Working Groups
The IAJU also establishes various committees and working groups to focus on specific areas such as academic excellence, social justice, research collaboration, and student exchange programs. These groups bring together experts from member institutions to develop and implement initiatives that align with the association's goals.