The Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) is a collegiate athletic conference in the United States, primarily composed of schools from the eastern part of the country. Founded in 1953, the ACC originally started with just seven member institutions but has since expanded to include 15 schools. The conference is known for its strong programs in various sports, particularly in basketball and football. The ACC is a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and competes at the Division I level. Its schools participate in a range of sports, including soccer, baseball, and lacrosse. The conference is recognized for its academic excellence and commitment to student-athlete development.