The college's response to the accrediting organization:
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACS) informed Virginia Intermont on June 20 that the accrediting board elected to remove the College from SACS membership. Virginia Intermont will file an immediate appeal which could be granted with the probation lifted as early as August. The College continues to be accredited throughout the appeal process.
The decision by the SACS board is based solely on the College’s financial position and not on academic programs. Virginia Intermont’s appeal will be based on progress that College administrators have made during the probationary period which includes:
- Reduced debt; VI has a modest debt ratio compared to peers.
- Doubled alumni giving rate and tripled donor gifts through strengthened commitments of alumni and friends of the College.
- Adopted best practices for depreciation and accounting methods at educational institutions.
- Earned higher than expected returns on endowment funds due to new management by Cary Street Partners.
- Improved student performance; increased retention rates from 2011 to 2013; reduced student withdrawals and academic probations over the same period.
“We are surprised and extremely disappointed with this decision. However, because of our close consultation with SACS staff over the past two months and their acknowledgement of our progress, we know exactly what we need to do to protect the College, our students, and our accreditation,” said President E. Clorisa Phillips. “We deeply appreciate the support of the community and will keep all of our constituents updated as changes occur.”
Current VI students with questions can go to a student forum by clicking here. General questions may also be addressed by emailing Vice President for Institutional Advancement Ronda Gentry at rondagentry@vic.edu.
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