For many decades certain core principles have guided the conduct of teaching, research, and scholarship at American universities, as well as the ways in which these institutions are governed. There is ample evidence that these principles have strongly contributed to the quality of American universities. The principles have also made these institutions centers of learning for students and professors from around the world who want to learn, to teach, and to conduct research at institutions where freedom of inquiry is assured. With the endorsement of its Executive Committee, the Association of American Universities (AAU) adopted the statement presented and principles presented in this document. The following principles are defined and included in the statement: (1) Institutional Autonomy; (2) Academic Freedom; and (3) Shared Governance.