The Association of American Universities (AAU) is an organization of predominantly American research universities devoted to maintaining a strong system of academic research and education. Founded in 1900, it consists of 69 public and private universities in the United States as well as 2 universities in Canada. AAU membership is by invitation only and requires an affirmative vote of three-quarters of current members. Organization.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Association_of_American_Universities