LINCOLN - Southeast Community College has learned the school has been granted accreditation for the next ten-year period.  The Higher Learning Commission granted renewal of accreditation to Southeast Community College through July, 2033.

Last April, SCC hosted a team of six reviewers who evaluated the College’s efforts to maintain the standards set by the HLC.  Says Dr. Paul Illich, SCC president, “It’s quite evident that the visiting team recognized and appreciated our commitment to creating the highest quality student experiences through personal and sincere relationships with engaged and invested faculty, staff and administrators.”

The accreditation process for SCC was led by Shawna Herwick, administrative director for accreditation, institutional assessment, and planning.  It involved a team of 20 SCC administrators, faculty and staff in developing data-driven responses for how SCC met the Criteria for Accreditation.

Herwick credits the hundreds of SCC employees who were engaged in the accreditation review through providing evidence, reviewing drafts of the report, and attending open listening sessions.  SCC received compliments for its commitment to an open-access mission and ongoing implementation of the College’s strategic goals.

In the U.S., accreditation is required at higher learning institutions in order for students to gain access to federal funds such as student grants and loans. Non-accredited institutions are not eligible for federal financial aid.

A comprehensive evaluation happens every 10 years regarding collection of evidence on how SCC meets HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation.  A written report is submitted and the process includes an on-site visit by the Higher Learning Commission.

SCC...the former Fairbury Junior College... serves a 15-county region with campuses in Beatrice, Lincoln and Milford.  The school operates Learning Centers in Falls City, Hebron, Nebraska City, Plattsmouth, Wahoo, and York.