The 1940 Statement of Principles on Academic Freedom and Tenure, jointly authored by AAUP and the Association of American Colleges (now the Association of the American Colleges and Universities), sets the standards that are basic for the integrity of institutions of higher learning.

Well over 1,000 faculty members- tenured, non-tenured, part time and full time, call upon the AAUP every year, requesting advice and assistance concerning academic freedom and tenure. The AAUP responds to the complaints of violations by providing consultation, mediation, and aid to faculty members in obtaining due process. Lack of corrective action may lead to on-site investigation and censure of the administration. Investigative reports are published in the AAUP journal, Academe, thereby informing the academic community of violations of the standards enunciated in the 1940 Statement of Principles.

It is the privilege and duty of the Iowa State Chapter to collectively represent the national organization on the ISU campus. Regular meetings by and with the Executive Council allow for a forum to present issues and violations, ensuring that the Faculty Voice is heard.