University Prepares for Middles States Reaccreditation  

Seton Hall is beginning its preparations for reaccreditation by the Middle States Commission of Higher Education. Accreditation occurs on a 10-year cycle and determines whether an institution meets specific quality standards and is eligible for federal student assistance. Accreditation also provides outside constituencies, including employers and prospective students, with critical information regarding the University’s curriculum and the preparation students receive. 

"This is not only an occasion to show how we meet Middle States standards," said Peter Shoemaker, Ph.D., Associate Provost for Undergraduate Education and Assessment. "More importantly, it is an opportunity for our community to reflect on its collective work as it relates to the University's strategic plan and mission."

Leading the self-study are two co-chairs: John Saccoman, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science; and Leigh Onimus, J.D., Associate Dean in the Stillman School of Business. Associate Provost Shoemaker will support the effort with Concetta Beale, director of the Office of Institutional Research. 

"Middle States accreditation is a University-wide effort, bringing together faculty, staff, administrators and students, and I am excited to be involved with such a wide-ranging group of Seton Hall people," Dr. Saccoman said. 

"I am honored to serve in this important role and look forward to working with colleagues across campus to reflect on the significant work being done to advance our mission and strategic plan," Associate Dean Onimus said.

As Seton Hall highlights its strengths and aspirations, it will closely follow its strategic plan, Harvest Our Treasures. This document, approved by the Board of Regents in December 2020, reflects Seton Hall's enduring values and sets out a roadmap for the future. "The strategic plan is a strong foundation for reaccreditation," Associate Provost Shoemaker said. "It equips us with a framework to explain what we do and what we stand for." 

The primary feature of the reaccreditation process is a self-study, a document prepared by the University that shows it meets seven standards set forth by Middle States: Mission and Goals; Ethics and Integrity; Design and Delivery of the Student Learning Experience; Support of the Student Experience; Educational Effectiveness Assessment; Planning, Resources and Institutional Improvement; and Governance, Leadership and Administration.

A working group, which will be led by co-chairs, is being assembled for each Middle States standard. In addition, there will be specific committees dedicated to communications, policy and compliance. The co-chairs and members of these working groups will include representatives from all constituencies across every campus. All members of the Seton Hall community will have an opportunity to provide feedback throughout the process. 

Seton Hall will launch a University-wide roll-out toward the end of this semester. The process will conclude in 2023 with an on-site evaluation visit and the decision of the Middle States Commission.

Categories: Education