The ACC's governance structure and processes are based on a set of 11 principles approved by the Board of Trustees to ensure the ability of the College to be nimble, strategic, accountable and inclusive of the diverse needs of the global cardiovascular community. The College is governed by a small, centralized Board that is strategically focused on the ACC's mission to transform cardiovascular care and improve heart health. The BOT is supported by six Board standing committees, with additional committees and councils reporting up to these standing committees and responsible for tactical and operational decision-making related to College programs, policies and products.
After two years of thoughtful discussion and planning, the College in December 2015 approved the principles that started the process of transforming its governance structure and processes – an effort that was phased in through April 2018.
Changes include a reduction in Board size from 31 to 14 members; the creation of six Board standing committees; reduction in BOT officers to president, president-elect, secretary and treasurer; leadership recommendations made by a newly formed Nominating Committee.