American University’s School of Education has announced the launch of the Advancing College Teaching for Student Success (ACTSS) National Center. Launched with support from Lumina Foundation and ECMC Foundation, the new center addresses a persistent gap in higher education by elevating undergraduate teaching excellence—the primary driver of the student experience.

“Effective teaching is one of the most powerful—and least systematically developed—levers for student success,” said Professor Corbin M. Campbell, ACTSS Center director. “As colleges and universities adapt to AI and educate more learners, teaching for all students’ success and economic prosperity has never mattered more. The launch of the ACTSS National Center represents our university’s steadfast commitment to superb student experiences and to the advancement of excellence in higher education.”

Despite investments in advising and retention, 40% of U.S. college students do not graduate within six years. Consequently, more than 43 million Americans have completed some college coursework but left before earning a degree or credential. The ACTSS National Center is tackling these challenges through its inaugural project: the Alliance for Better College Teaching (ABCT).

ABCT will establish the Better College Teaching Coalition—comprised of leading higher education organizations—and the Better College Teaching Network, a cohort of universities and colleges renowned for their commitment to evidence-based teaching. Central to this initiative is a new designation designed to help prospective students and their families identify institutions that prioritize teaching, learning and student success.

The ACTSS National Center is commemorating its launch with sessions at the American Association of Colleges and Universities Conference on Learning and Student Success, April 15–18, followed by a webinar, “Launching the Alliance for Better College Teaching: Initial Strategy and How to be Involved,” on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 1 p.m. EST.