TIFFIN – Heidelberg University has received excellent news from the regional accrediting agency, the Higher Learning Commission (HLC): The university has had its long-standing accreditation status since 1913 reaffirmed for the next 10 years. The next comprehensive HLC evaluation will occur in academic year 2025-26.
The reaffirmation for reaccreditation validates the quality of an institution as a whole and evaluates multiple aspects of an institution based on a consistent set of standards. These standards include academic offerings, governance and administration, mission, finances and resources.
A team of HLC peer reviewers visited Heidelberg’s campus to complete a comprehensive evaluation of all aspects of the University’s operation on Feb. 29-March 1. Prior to the visit, the university provided an “assurance argument” that assessed a broad cross-section of areas, such as the mission and how it guides operations; how the university conducts itself with integrity; continuous evaluation and improvement initiatives for teaching and learning; and the effectiveness of resources and planning.
“This is an important step for the future of Heidelberg as we continue to shape the institution in ways that will provide our students with exceptional opportunities, both in and out of the classroom,” said President Robert H. Huntington. “Our sharper focus on student education excellence and student success has been affirmed by HLC,” he added.
A team of 36 faculty and staff members worked for about two years to produce the assurance argument, under the coordination of Provost Emeritus Dr. David Weininger. During the campus visit, HLC reviewers met with students, faculty members, staff members and administrators. “The team left with the understanding that Heidelberg is special in many ways,” Weininger noted. “The message they heard was consistently one of pride in our institution, dedication to our mission and commitment to excellence.”
HLC’s reaffirmation of Heidelberg’s accreditation is a strong indicator that the university is making positive and well-managed change,” said Provost Dr. Beth Schwartz. “I believe we conveyed how great a place Heidelberg is for a student to earn a degree and prepare for a successful career and life, as well as to work as an employee and to develop as a professional,” she said.
Schwartz noted that as part of the 10-year reaffirmation of accreditation that HLC granted, Heidelberg will develop an interim report in two years that addresses improvements in assessment across campus.
