HCC Granted Continued Accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission
1/22/2010
FREEPORT — Highland Community College was granted continued accreditation status by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and continued membership in the North Central Association. College officials were informed of the continued status, commonly referred to as reaccreditation, in late December 2009.
Accreditation ensures that an institution meets standards established by the higher education community, has a purpose appropriate to higher education and has the resources, programs and services sufficient to accomplish its purpose on a continuing basis. Accreditation evaluates whether an institution maintains clearly specified educational objectives consistent with its mission and whether it is successful in achieving its stated objectives.
The US Department of Education recognizes accreditation by the HLC in establishing the eligibility of higher education institutions to participate in federal financial support. Without accreditation status, Highland would not be eligible to receive federal funding.
Since 2003, Highland has participated in the HLC’s Academic Quality Improvement Program (AQIP), a process which allows the College to maintain its accreditation through a process of continuous quality improvement. In March of 2009, the College underwent a comprehensive AQIP CheckUp Visit which included a comprehensive evaluation of its processes and programs by an AQIP review team. The team’s findings were submitted to a review panel and were instrumental in ensuring the continued accreditation status granted by the HLC.
“The review panel evaluated five general criteria for fulfillment of accreditation covering a wide range of academic and student service functions”, according to Highland’s Vice President of Academic Services, Dr. Jeff Davidson. “The panel found that each criterion was met and recommended that no follow up was needed by the Commission. We are delighted with the outcome. The next scheduled reaffirmation of accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission is scheduled for 2016.”
"Of course, we are very pleased with our being granted continued accreditation, not only does it ensure that we can continue to receive federal funding, it is validation that the college is continuing to provide quality education, training and services to the residents of Northwest Illinois”, said HCC President Dr. Joe Kanosky. “I commend the college trustees, faculty and staff for their efforts in maintaining the high standards required to receive continued accreditation.”
Highland Community College offers more than 60 programs of applied and transfer degrees, community education and business training. In addition to comprehensive academic programming, Highland provides theatre, art and music opportunities for the community. Highland Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association’s Academic Quality Improvement Program. Located in Freeport and Elizabeth, Highland is conveniently positioned in the tri-state region with access to several major metropolitan areas.
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OFFICE
OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS
2998 W. Pearl City Road
Freeport, IL 61032-9341
