The Association of Departments of English (ADE) is a professional organization that supports English departments in higher education across the United States. Founded in 1974, the ADE focuses on promoting the value of English studies and enhancing the quality of education in this field. It provides resources, networking opportunities, and professional development for department chairs and faculty members. The ADE also engages in advocacy efforts to highlight the importance of English education in fostering critical thinking and communication skills. By collaborating with other organizations, such as the Modern Language Association (MLA), the ADE aims to address challenges faced by English departments and to promote best practices in teaching and curriculum development.