Gonzaga University
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Heritage University
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Pacific Lutheran University
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Saint Martin's University
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Seattle Pacific University
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Seattle University
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University of Puget Sound
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Whitman College
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Whitworth University
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Gonzaga University • Heritage University • Pacific Lutheran University • Saint Martin's University • Seattle Pacific University • Seattle University • University of Puget Sound • Whitman College • Whitworth University •
ANNUAL REPORT 2026
Celebrating Progress. Advancing Opportunity.
Welcome to Independent Colleges of Washington’s 2026 Annual Report—a reflection of what is possible when we invest together in higher education as a public good and a powerful engine of mobility and innovation.
Over the past year, your partnership has strengthened collaboration across our member campuses, elevated student voices in policy conversations, and expanded equitable access to financial aid—opening doors for more students to pursue and complete their degrees.
We undertake this work with purpose and urgency, grounded in a clear understanding: sustained investment in higher education delivers measurable returns for individuals, communities, and our state’s economy.
We are deeply grateful to the donors and policymakers who share this commitment to expanding opportunity. Your leadership makes this progress possible—and propels us toward an even stronger future for Washington.
ICW’s Member Campuses
Independent Colleges of Washington member campuses cultivate talent with a strong liberal arts foundation that fosters intellectual curiosity, values diversity, and helps students find the right academic, developmental, and social fit.
Grounded in a commitment to holistic education, our campuses deliver lasting value to students, alumni, and communities. Through strategic partnerships and advocacy, ICW expands access to higher education—reducing financial barriers and enabling more Washington residents to enroll in and complete degrees. Completion rates at our private, not-for-profit campuses are nearly 20 percentage points higher than the national average.
ICW campuses are a vital partner in Washington’s higher education ecosystem. With continued state and philanthropic investment, we can extend this impact—opening doors for thousands more students and strengthening a diverse, inclusive postsecondary landscape.
Our graduates are well-prepared to contribute to Washington’s workforce, bringing critical thinking, adaptability, and leadership to communities across the state. Their impact extends far beyond graduation: alumni strengthen local economies, serve their communities, and help power a vibrant future for Washington.
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Real Students. Real Impact. Real Opportunity.
Students are at the heart of ICW’s mission to advance postsecondary attainment statewide. Their aspirations and achievements fuel our commitment to educational equity and opportunity, guiding our work to ensure every student has the support needed to reach their full potential.
Even as ICW works with strategic partners and employers so students have the support of private scholarships, we know the cuts to state student aid – both the Washington College Grant (WA Grant) and the College Bound Scholarship program – were inequitable and undermine our collective efforts to meet educational attainment and workforce goals.
For the thousands of Washingtonians who will only go to a four-year campus if it is close to home, non-profit campuses make the difference between a degree and not going on for higher education.
ICW in Action
We serve as advocates, policy experts, and strategic fundraising partners—united in advancing student success.
Accountability and Transparency
Independent Colleges of Washington (ICW) advances student success through strategic fundraising, policy advocacy, and targeted programs. As a nonprofit membership association, we are committed to transparency and accountability—ensuring stakeholders understand how resources support our mission to strengthen higher education in Washington State.
As the leading advocate for the state’s private, not-for-profit colleges and universities, ICW helps expand opportunity for students while supporting Washington’s postsecondary attainment goals. We steward public and private investments with integrity, demonstrating measurable impact and earning the trust of our partners and communities.
Valued Partners
Support from our public and private community partners fuel student success.
“Thank you for making higher education possible for me! Because of you, I get to continue pursuing my degree and serving my community.”
— Diego G., Class of 2026
Stronger Because of You
Thank you for championing policies and investments that expand opportunity for Washington students and strengthen ICW.
