Today, the Higher Education Video Game Alliance launched. Its goal is to create a network which can better prepare students to enter the industry while supporting educators in that goal. It has announced plans to conduct research and analyses, and hold an annual conference — though there are no concrete details of these just yet. To achieve this, HEVGA launches with backing from the Entertainment Software Association, membership of a number of prominent universities and colleges, and leadership from experienced educators and game developers. The mission statement of the Alliance states that its mission is “to create a platform for higher education leaders which will underscore the cultural, scientific, and economic importance of video game programs in colleges and universities.” As well as offering educators and students its benefits — including access to research, archives, and game industry best practices as well as its annual conference and other events — HEVGA will also work with government and the industry to shape policy and partner schools and students with opportunities. The executive director of HEVGA is University of Wisconsin-Madison educator and former White House senior policy analyst Constance Steinkuehler, and its board includes educators from the University of Southern California, the Rochester Institute of Technology, Carnegie Mellon University, and New York University. Many more colleges and universities have already joined HEVGA. A full list is available at its site; educators, students, and other entities (such as studios and state and local governments) can also join the organization there. Dues are initially waived as the organization establishes itself. You can also follow its official Twitter account @HigherEdGames.