Longwood’s accreditation reaffirmed
Capping a standard and thorough review of the entire institution, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has formally reaffirmed Longwood’s accreditation.
The SACSCOC board of trustees took formal action on Dec. 9, 2014, at the organization’s annual meeting in Nashville. The reaffirmation process for Longwood had progressed smoothly, and the announcement was a moment of deep pride and satisfaction for the many university faculty and staff who were involved.
“We are pleased the commission reaffirmed Longwood’s accreditation and appreciate its thoughtful and meaningful feedback throughout the process,” said Longwood President W. Taylor Reveley IV. “The rigorous review of the university revealed anew the quality of our offerings, with a firm footing in the liberal arts and sciences and an eye toward teaching 21st-century skills.”
Longwood was first accredited by SACSCOC in 1927 and most recently reaffirmed in 2003. The accreditation process not only ensures students of a quality higher education but also provides opportunities for institutions’ continued improvement.
Longwood first submitted a detailed compliance certification report in September 2013 and hosted a regular visit by SACSCOC officials in March 2014. One of the outcomes of the process is a Quality Enhancement Plan developed by universities as a roadmap for continual improvement. Longwood’s QEP, named R.E.A.L. Inquiry, focuses on supporting undergraduate research opportunities.
“This reaffirmation of Longwood’s accreditation is the result of a three-year effort by a large portion of the Longwood community, and credit for our success is due to the hard work of a number of people,” said Virginia Kinman, associate vice president for accreditation and compliance. The accrediting board again saw the strength of this institution.”