Founded in 1974, the Council for Advancement and Support of Education is one of the largest international associations of education institutions that serves more than 3,400 universities, colleges and independent primary and secondary schools in over 60 countries. The association is also one of the leading resources for professional development, information and standards in the fields of educational fundraising, communications, marketing and alumni relations. The Council for Advancement and Support of Education serves over 60,000 advancement professionals on the staffs of its member institutions and has more than 22,500 professional members. The association has over 300 member institutions, including Aberystwyth University, Abilene Christian University and the Academy of the Holy Angels in the United Kingdom, Ireland and continental Europe. It is a recipient of the Circle of Excellence Awards.