SACSCOC Invites Public Comment on Draft Principles of Accreditation

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) has published the first draft of its revised Principles of Accreditation: The Standards for Accreditation and Reaffirmation and is inviting member institutions, higher education stakeholders, and the public to submit feedback during an open comment period.

The draft was prepared by the SACSCOC Principles Review Committee, a group of peer representatives from all levels of institutions across the Commission’s membership. The Commission is committed to ensuring that accreditation remains a rigorous, transparent, and effective process that supports institutional quality, student achievement, and continuous improvement. The draft emphasizes mission differentiation, student success, workforce alignment, institutional flexibility, and trust in institutional integrity.

“I strongly encourage every institution and every interested stakeholder to engage in this review process,” SACSCOC President Dr. Stephen L. Pruitt said. “Accreditation is strongest when it is informed by the expertise and experience of the higher education community. Engagement is not simply participation; it is stewardship. It is how we ensure that accreditation continues to reflect the realities of higher education while protecting students, strengthening institutions, and preserving trust in quality.”

The revised draft shows ongoing efforts to keep SACSCOC’s Principles of Accreditation responsive to the changing needs of students and institutions while upholding the rigor and accountability that define the accreditation process.

SACSCOC urges institutions, faculty, administrators, governing board members, students, and other interested parties to review the draft and provide feedback.

The draft document and comment surveys are available at:

www.sacscoc.org/principles-review

Comments will be accepted through June 19, 2026.

Questions regarding the review process may be directed to Dr. Sandra Jordan, SACSCOC Chief of Staff and Vice President, at sjordan@sacscoc.org.

About SACSCOC

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) is a recognized accrediting body for degree-granting higher education institutions in the United States and around the world. SACSCOC serves as the common denominator of shared values and practices among the diverse institutions it accredits, ensuring educational quality, institutional effectiveness, and continuous improvement. Through accreditation, SACSCOC supports institutions in their mission to provide high-quality education and to serve students and communities.

Media Contact:
Eric Mann
Director of Public Information
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
emann@sacscoc.org  | 404-994-6576