The MI-ACE was formed in 1978, one year after the national program was inaugurated. We work in concert with the American Council on Education nationally to identify, develop, encourage, advance, link and support (IDEALS) women in higher education.
The professional network for Michigan women in higher education.
State Chair, Connie Tingson Gatuz, PhD
Our roots trace back to 1978 when MI-ACE was established as one of the pioneering state networks in the nation, a distinction we hold with pride. For decades, we have been the unwavering voice of women in higher education in Michigan.
In these times of rapid change and the multitude of challenges we collectively face, the need for women leaders in higher education has never been more pressing. We recognize the immense value that diverse perspectives and the wealth of talent from all gender identities bring to the forefront. The voices of women in management and policy-making roles are indispensable, and our Network’s mission revolves around providing avenues for professional growth, networking, collaboration, and engagement. Our aim is to cultivate an ever-expanding reservoir of talent for Michigan campuses. Through strong connections with other professional domains, peer mentoring, and a comprehensive range of programs, we empower our members to achieve remarkable career milestones, thereby fortifying the thriving of our academic institutions. MI-ACE stands as a stalwart advocate for higher education and for women within it. As we stand on the cusp of new beginnings and opportunities, I acknowledge the incredible work that has been accomplished by our Institutional Representatives and our active, hard-working Executive Board.
Connie Tingson Gatuz, PhD
Associate Vice President for Student Life
University of Michigan
statechair@miacenetwork.org
ctgatuz@umich.edu
Vision
We envision an open and just higher education environment in which women and men share their talents and voices equally to improve the quality of higher education. Although there have been gains in gender equity in higher education, more attention is called for. Therefore, we focus on building a substantial network of women in Michigan higher education by providing leadership, resources, and services. Our efforts include professional development, networking, advocacy, and partnerships with other professional women’s networks, to empower our members to achieve career success and gain a greater voice.
Mission
In concert with the American Council on Education (ACE) and the ACE Women’s Network Executive Council, the Michigan ACE Women’s Network is committed to improving the general climate and professional environment for women by identifying, developing, encouraging, advancing, linking, and supporting (IDEALS) women in higher education careers throughout the state.
Values
- Quality leadership
- Inclusive participation, community, and leadership
- Diversity
- Teamwork
- Mentoring
- Collaboration with other groups/building alliances
- Support for women in higher education, including balance in professional and personal pursuits
Our planning efforts and actions will be based on these values and guiding principles because we believe that quality higher education governance is best practiced in a fair, equitable, and supportive environment for both women and men of different ethnicities and backgrounds.
How to get involved with MI-ACE
- Volunteer to be an Institutional Representative (IR) for your college/university.
- Submit a presentation proposal for the annual conference.
- Volunteer to serve on a MI-ACE committee.
- Organize a professional development workshop or session on your campus to engage colleagues and build the network among women on your campus.
- Submit to your president a draft nomination for a deserving woman leader on your campus as a possible nominee for the MI-ACE Distinguished Woman Leader Award.
Partner Organizations
In addition to the the ACE Women’s Network, MI-ACE partners with organizations with similar ideals and goals.
