The University is conducting its self-study over the next two years to achieve reaccreditation, as required by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
The NECHE2023 Steering Committee and sub-committees are evaluating the institution across nine standards, as required every 10 years. NECHE representatives are scheduled to visit the campus in March 2023.
Below is a recent update from NECHE2023 co-chairs Kim Tobin, Ph.D., professor of criminal justice; and Library Director Tom Raffensperger, supported by Callie Katsounakis.
NECHE Background: Legacy documents and prior self-study reports provide insight into past concerns and serve as a reflection point for the University’s accomplishments over the past decade. Also, the self-study process and the involvement of various constituencies allow examination of all parts of the institution, reflecting on effectiveness, determining strengths and areas for improvement, and setting processes and goals to resolve problems identified in the self-study.
The NECHE2023 sub-committees are meeting, working through NECHE Standards, and reviewing prior accreditation feedback, with the goal of completing a rough draft by December 1 (see timeline here). Each standard has a chair (or co-chairs) and all chairs/co-chairs and NECHE leadership team comprise the Steering Committee, which meets biweekly. Students are being recruited for committee participation. The Steering Committee will attend a two-day workshop in mid-October. NECHE2023 expects to host a series of virtual brown bag “NECHE LUNCHes” in early November to discuss the specific standards and pathways for campus input in the self-study process.
Employees are encouraged to read the standards, perhaps those that affect your areas most, so you are ready to contribute. For more information, visit https://lib.westfield.ma.edu/NECHE23.
If you have any questions or suggestions, please email NECHE2023@westfield.ma.edu.