ASSOCIATION ACCREDITS UNIVERSITY

Southeast Missouri State University has been reaccredited for a 10-year period by the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

"Receiving the 10-year accreditation is one of the most significant recognitions that a university can receive from an outside agency," said Leslie Cochran, university provost.

"It is public certification that the university is following approved policies and procedures," he said. "It's a positive statement about the standards and the quality of the academic programs."

The action follows a three-day campus visit last October by a six-member North Central evaluation team. Ten years is the maximum period for which North Central grants accreditation.

During the visit, team members met with members of the Board of Regents, the university's chief administrative officers, the Faculty Senate, Professional Staff Council, student government leaders, University Foundation board officers and Alumni Association members.

~~~~University officials also presented the team with a "self-study report" as part of the evaluation process.

In its review, the team commended the university for its receptiveness to new administrative leadership, well-maintained physical plant and thoughtful internal planning. The team also applauded the university's strong support by alumni, the foundation board and the community, and underscored the loyalty of its students, faculty and employees.

The team also highlighted other university strengths including its effort to provide cultural perspective through the International Studies program, faculty support in planning and executing the University Studies program and the institutional role it has played in providing cultural enrichment for the region.

"The reaccreditation is a tribute to the faculty for their dedication to excellence and to the staff for their hard work," Cochran said. "T~his recognition acknowledges the outstanding efforts of literally hundreds of individuals who are dedicated to quality."

Southeast's next comprehensive evaluation is scheduled for the 2000-2001 academic year.