Message from the President

Welcome Back Autumn 2007 

As many of us are eager to start another academic year, many of our accreditation committee members are likely looking forward to the end of fall quarter.  Why?  They can celebrate a job well done!  Indeed, the first critical piece of our college-wide self study is nearly behind us. 

The committee members deserve recognition for their contributions to our College’s accreditation process.  Their work has been time consuming and challenging—there were surveys, discussion groups, interviews, and strategic conversations.  Committees have discussed the HLC criteria, examined data, and summarized findings.  Thanks to all of the individuals contributing to our self study.  It has been invigorating to see so many persons reaching out and getting involved.

Early this quarter, all of the work of the committee members will be merged and edited to produce our final review manuscript of the College’s Self-Study report.  During this fall quarter, the entire college community will be invited to review and provide feedback on the manuscript. 

As we transition our focus later this quarter from preparing the report to preparing for the visit, it’s not too soon to start considering college-wide things needing to be done prior to the team’s arrival.  The scheduled May accreditation visit will be here before we know it. 

Each of us can do our part to ensure a successful accreditation visit by looking at our own offices, files, websites, bulletin boards, display cases, classrooms, facilities, grounds and hallways; and making certain that they are current and in order.  Let’s all take notice of our working environments.  Do they appropriately reflect an institution of higher education?  Do they inspire innovation or learning?  Do they welcome students and visitors and convey the college’s commitment to quality and excellence?  Let’s plan ahead; we have company coming soon!

Bonnie L. Coe, Ph.D.

President