FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Erika Roache
Director of Public Relations
VUU Receives Reaffirmation of Full Accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
[RICHMOND, VA – December 9, 2021] -- Virginia Union University (VUU) is pleased to announce that the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) has reaffirmed the institution’s 10-year accreditation.
“I am pleased that Virginia Union University’s accreditation has been reaffirmed by SACSCOC,” said Dr. Terrell Strayhorn, Provost and Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs. “This rigorous process started back in 2019 and the outcome reflects our firm commitment to incremental progress, continuous improvement, and ‘Best in Class’ as we strive to give every student a high-quality educational experience.”
SACSCOC’s accreditation review examines all aspects of an institution including, but not limited to, academic programs, faculty qualifications, financial stability, governance, physical facilities, support services and internal processes related to strategic planning, assessment and evaluation – collectively referred to as “Institutional Effectiveness.” This accreditation is required for federal financial aid and serves as a timeless hallmark of institutional quality. VUU first earned accreditation from SACSCOC in 1935 and was the first institution to undergo the review process virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2022, VUU will submit a monitoring report and its next 5th Year Review report in 2026. Although the University’s level-change application has been denied, the Provost has appointed a workgroup to review the committee’s recommendations and prepare a revised application that will be submitted by June 2022.
“I am proud of the institution’s continued advancement toward our ‘Best in Class’ strategic goal,” said Dr. Hakim J. Lucas, President and CEO of VUU. “Our reaffirmation by SACSCOC shows the university’s overall progression and reveals areas where we can continue to excel. We will await a new decision while we continue to push forward into our next phase of growth.”
About SACSCOC
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) is a highly regarded regional accrediting body of degree-granting institutions, committed in mission to assuring the educational quality and effectiveness of member institutions. For more information about SACSCOC, visit their website at www.sacscoc.org.
About Virginia Union University
Virginia Union University is a premier liberal arts urban institution of higher education and center of excellence for the preparation of students and the development of leaders for tomorrow’s world. It was founded in 1865 to give newly emancipated slaves an opportunity for education and advancement. Virginia Union University offers a broad range of educational opportunities that advance liberal arts education, teaching, research, science, technology, continuing education, civic engagement, and international experiences. Visit www.vuu.edu for more information.