ACLS is a carefully integrated assembly of scholars, educators, administrators, and member institutions that support the advancement of humanistic scholarship. Our structure and governance are defined in the bylaws, approved in 2025. In 1982, the United States Congress recognized the public role of ACLS by awarding it a Congressional charter.
Board of Directors
Our board consists of up to 20 volunteer members elected by the Board of Directors. The board works closely with the ACLS president in establishing organizational direction and policies, allocating funds, overseeing investments, and general and fiscal oversight. Meet the ACLS Board of Directors.
Delegates
An ACLS Delegate is selected by each of the 81 member societies for a four-year term to represent their constituent society. An elected, seven-member Executive Committee of the Delegates serves as the Advisory Committee to the Board of Directors on admissions of new societies and affiliates. The chair of the Executive Committee of the Delegates serves as an ex officio member of the Board of Directors. In 2025, ACLS updated the guidelines for delegates.
Conference of Executive Officers
The principal administrator from each of the 81 member societies serves on the Conference of Executive Officers (CEO). The CEO elects a seven-member Executive Committee, whose chair also serves as an ex officio member of the Board of Directors. Meet the Conference of Executive Officers.
ACLS Member Institutions
ACLS member institutions represent thousands of of scholars, educators, and administrators around the world, all committed to the advancement of humanistic scholarship.
81 scholarly organizations
ACLS is a federation of 81 learned societies that meet throughout the year.
45 Leading Research Universities
The Consortium plays a vital role in helping sustain and enhance the national infrastructure of humanistic research.
Over 200 Scholarly Institutions
Colleges, universities, and research libraries that make up the backbone of American higher education.
11 Prestigious Academic Organizations
Affiliate members enhance the community and effectiveness of those actively working on behalf of the humanistic research.
