Open Forum on UNI’s Reaccreditation

President Allen and Provost Gibson invite faculty, staff and students to an important update on UNI's Higher Learning Commission (HLC) reaccreditation self-study process.  An open forum will be held:

Wednesday, Feb. 10, 3:15 p.m.
Maucker Union Old Central Ballroom

UNI's reaccreditation steering committee will highlight key aspects of the self-study, including the Foundations of Excellence® and HLC work, seek input, and discuss how individuals can submit suggestions for possible revisions of the self-study report, and outline the next steps in completing the reaccreditation process. Input from faculty, staff and students, and their active participation in the next phases of the review process, are critical to UNI’s successful reaccreditation.  Please make every effort to attend this important meeting and to contribute to the shaping of UNI’s future.

Higher Learning Commission Accreditation Process

Every 10 years, the University of Northern Iowa conducts a self-study in preparation for reaccreditation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. That process is now underway in preparation for the reaccreditation site visit in fall, 2010.

Preparing for our institutional reaccreditation requires the support and assistance from all programs and units on campus. The steering committee of faculty, staff and students will coordinate this process. We welcome and will be seeking your suggestions and feedback at every step of the way.

UNI has been granted permission by the HLC to utilize the option of creating a customized self-study process. We are participating in the joint project between the HLC and the Policy Center on the First Year of College which allows us to integrate into our accreditation process a focus on evaluating and improving our students' first-year experience.

Accreditation is a process that evaluates quality and provides a road map for institutional improvements. It assures students that their academic programs meet nationally recognized standards. Accreditation is required for UNI to receive federal funds for student financial aid and research.

Focus of Re-Accreditation at UNI

• Assess the quality of an institution and its effectiveness
• Assist the institution in making improvements in its operations and effectiveness
• Provide mission-driven accreditation