The College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) exists to serve a select group of private colleges and universities of similar size and heritage, which share a deep commitment to superior undergraduate education and a common perspective on the role of intercollegiate athletics in that education. The conference supports the following principles that distinguish the CCIW and its approach to intercollegiate athletics:

Student-focused approach - CCIW schools place the highest priority on the overall educational experience of the individual student. Athletics are viewed as an important element of a well-rounded education. Student-athletes are integrated into the mainstream of the entire student body, receive no special privileges and are encouraged to participate in other campus groups and activities. The conference supports the active recruitment of student-athletes as a means of achieving the educational aims of each member institution.

Broad based athletics programs - The CCIW program is wide-ranging in scope, with meaningful competition and championships offered in numerous sports. Each member institution offers a broad based program of intercollegiate sports and seeks widespread student participation in that program.

Fairness and equity - CCIW institutions are sensitive and responsive to the needs and interests of all student-athletes, and are governed by principles of fairness and equity in its approach to funding, staffing and overall support for all sports. Each member institution is expected to fully comply with all NCAA, CCIW and institutional rules and regulations in the operation of its athletics program. Recruiting should occur within the rules and with honesty and integrity. Coaches should avoid negative recruiting by refraining from derogatory and/or slanderous statements about other schools, coaches, staff or student-athletes.

Overall excellence and national stature of the conference - The CCIW seeks to continually develop and strengthen itself with the goal of recognition of the premier NCAA Division III athletic conference. The CCIW seeks to promote keen competition, the highest level of sporting behavior and the strongest performance possible in each sport. Regular participation by member institutions in NCAA regional and national competition is an ongoing conference goal.