Ethan Zubkoff and Jen Lassen
Assistant News Editor and Senior Writer
University Hosts Middle States Re-Accreditation Forum
The University hosted a forum on Sept. 24 to begin its re-accreditation process. At the forum, there was a presentation of the first draft of a self-study guide for its upcoming re-accreditation with the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
“The self-study addresses Middle States’ 14 Standards of Excellence, with a special emphasis on the interaction between Bucknell’s residential nature and our academic mission,” Provost Mick Smyer said.
The self-study is also designed to assess the extent to which the University adheres to the characteristics of excellence outlined by the 14 Middle States Commission on Higher Education accreditation standards, Smyer said.
“For reference, in Middle States parlance, a ‘recommendation’ is binding and requires follow-up action from the University within the next five years. A ‘suggestion’ by contrast is an action that is strongly encouraged, but is not required,” Smyer said.
The reaccreditation process takes place once every 10 years with the goal of composing a document that not only meets the needs of the Middle States Commission but at the same serving as a valuable way to enlighten the University about the continuing institutional planning, change and growth, Smyer said.
“The self-study process gives Bucknell and Bucknellians a chance to reflect on our strengths and challenges as an institution and our goals for the next ten years,” Smyer said.
The self-study is also designed to advance the University’s strategic priorities to enhance its academic and residential relationship, assist in its long-term vision for growth, sustainability and development in higher education.
Over 60 faculty members, staff, and students, who broke into six working groups, created this self-study, which is chaired by Professor of German and Humanities Katie Faull and Professor of Physics Tom Solomon over a two-year period.
Just under 100 faculty members, staff, and students attended the forum, according to Smyer.