Dear Colleagues,

I am pleased to introduce The Commission on Colleges and Universities, the new name for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

It is important to emphasize that this change does not affect the accreditation status of any member institution. Accreditation will continue under the SACSCOC umbrella, and institutions will not be required to pursue changes to state laws, regulations, or policies because of this transition. Our accreditation authority, responsibilities, and commitment to quality assurance remain the same.

For generations, SACSCOC has been a trusted partner to institutions dedicated to educational quality, ongoing improvement, and student success. That commitment remains steady.

Our new identity shows who we are today and where higher education is going. The Commission on Colleges and Universities reflects the scope of our work, the institutions we serve, and our vision for the future. We’re here to guide our member institutions around the world as they move from accountability to impact.

While our name is changing, the values and principles that guide us remain the same. We remain dedicated to thorough peer review, accountability, institutional growth, and helping our member institutions serve students and communities.

This change is not about leaving our history behind. It is about building on a strong legacy while preparing for the opportunities and challenges ahead. We are proud of what we have achieved together as SACSCOC, and we are excited about what lies ahead as The Commission on Colleges and Universities.

The change will officially take effect on September 1, 2026. Over the coming months, you will start to see our new brand reflected across our website, communications, publications, and other organizational materials. During this transition, some references to SACSCOC will remain as systems and resources are updated.

Thank you for your continued leadership, partnership, and commitment to students and institutional excellence.

Be Bold, Stay Gold.

Sincerely,

Stephen L. Pruitt, Ph.D.
President
The Commission on Colleges and Universities
Formerly the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

The torch illuminates. The shield protects.

Together, these symbols represent our commitment to advancing educational quality while safeguarding the integrity, value, and public trust that define higher education. Our traditional torch reflects learning, discovery, and innovation. The added shield reflects accountability, stewardship, and our responsibility to protect the interests of students and institutions worldwide. Combined, they embody our vision for a future where excellence and innovation go hand in hand.

The Commission’s navy and gold color palette reflects both trust and excellence.

Navy blue represents boldness, integrity, stability, credibility, and the enduring trust that institutions, students, and the public place in accreditation. Gold symbolizes achievement, excellence, and the transformative power of higher education.

Together, the colors reflect our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of quality while helping institutions pursue innovation and continuous improvement.

Be Bold, Stay Gold. 

Follow The Commission’s work through ongoing dialogue, thought leadership, and institutional engagement.

• • Pruitt’s Law or Lore: Clearing up common misconceptions in accreditation

• • The Torch Report: Monthly news, updates, and insights from The Commission

• • SACSCOC News: Stay up-to-date on the work The Commission is doing