We are 25 member colleges and universities in Illinois, advancing independent liberal arts and sciences education and helping underserved students succeed. ACI is 25 independent, private colleges and universities that raises funds for student scholarships Associated Colleges of Illinois has supported numerous independent colleges and universities with a liberal arts tradition in Illinois for more than 70 years benefitting thousands of underrepresented students through scholarships, emergency financial aid, mentoring, and other forms of college to career support.