Heidelberg earns maximum reaccreditation

TIFFIN - The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools has granted Heidelberg College a 10-year reaccreditation - the maximum possible - following a comprehensive peer review last fall.

The commission recently informed Heidelberg President F. Dominic Dottavio about its positive action. Heidelberg continues its lengthy track record with the association; the college has been continuously reaccredited since 1913 and is among the first group of colleges the organization recognized.

NCA's reaccreditation is welcome news for the college. It comes after a two-year extensive self-study in which every aspect of operation - including facilities, academic programs, administration, faculty and staff, student life, support services and finances -- was closely assessed, according to David Weininger, associate vice president for academic support, who coordinated the self-study process.

"Reaccreditation tells the world and other institutions that Heidelberg is a quality institution that offers quality programs," Weininger said.

Dottavio echoed those sentiments. "We come to work every day because of our students. Reaccreditation by the Higher Learning Commission affirms for us that we are providing them with an excellent learning environment. At the same time, we continue to find ways to improve the student experience," Dottavio said.

Last fall, a five-member team of higher education representatives from the Higher Learning Commission visited the campus to conduct a comprehensive on-site evaluation The five-member team spent three days on campus, conducting interviews and looking at facilities and programs. The college's next scheduled reaccreditation visit will occur in 2015.

NCA is one of six regional institutional accreditors in the U.S.; through its commissions, it accredits and grants membership to institutions in 20 states. The Higher Learning Commission is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council on Higher Education Accreditation.