Academics are inclined to think of their work as a pure calling. But the fact remains that the profession of higher education--like all professions--is embedded in various rules, assumptions, and programs that further the fiduciary obligations of the profession and also protect the rights, agendas and self-interests of the profession's members. Throned at the organizational peak of academia are a number of professional associations often referred to collectively as "One Dupont Circle," since many of them are headquartered at that address in Washington, DC. These organizations are dedicated to improving pedagogy and leadership according to their own visions and agendas. In this article, the author examines some of the "One Dupont Circle" organizations. It focuses on the four organizations that are the most deeply concerned with pedagogy and the balance between academic freedom and diversity: the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education; the American Council of Education; the Association of American Colleges and Universities; and the Association of American State Colleges and Universities. (Contains 51 footnotes.)