In June 2014, the board of trustees of the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association issued a “show-cause order” to historically Black Wilberforce University in Ohio. A show-cause order is a procedural order that requires an institution to present its case as to why its accreditation should not be withdrawn.
The university issued a 3,000-page report last December to the accrediting body in an effort to demonstrate it had met the commission’s concerns. A delegation from the Higher Learning Commission visited the Wilberforce campus in April. Afterwards, the university filed an additional 700 pages of documentation.
Earlier this month the Higher Learning Commission lifted the show-cause order. The commission stated that “the current administration has created realistic, financial projections which will help the University and its future plans. There is demonstration that the institution’s financial situation is fully comprehended as well as the importance of ongoing financial analysis for effective and strategic future planning.”
The accrediting body also noted that there had been “progress in making changes to the physical plant and technological infrastructure and creating a schedule to address other maintenance issues. The university has taken action that includes hiring a new financial aid director and developing new procedures to address financial aid issues.” The commission also noted that Wilberforce had been successful in increasing student enrollments.
Congratulations and best wishes for continued success!