The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the agency that accredits degree granting colleges and universities, has removed the sanction of Probation for Wilberforce University. The Commission took this action based on the university’s ability to demonstrate that it now meets HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation.
The university was placed on probation in June 2018 when it was determined to be out of compliance with HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation and was granted an extension based on HLC’s temporary emergency COVID-19 policy.
“We are forever grateful for God’s continued grace on Wilberforce University and thankful to HLC Board of Trustees for its decision,” said Wilberforce University President Dr. Elfred Anthony Pinkard. “This is wonderful news and the culmination of the hard and dedicated work of our faculty, staff, alumni, and Board of Trustees and their unwavering commitment to Wilberforce University.”
Despite the sanctions, Wilberforce University was able to accept credits and admit students. Wilberforce worked diligently to meet the standards set by HLC. That includes strengthening academic programs and services, achieving higher enrollment numbers, and establishing several new and invigorating partnerships with local, regional, and national universities, programs, and industries.
For Wilberforce alum and chair of its board of trustees, Mark Wilson, the news means moving the university forward. “This is the first of many great steps towards the continued success that the institution is poised to experience.”
“At Wilberforce, resilience is part of our institutional DNA, and we choose to use this historic moment as an urgent call to action to continue the work of transforming Wilberforce into a high-performing institution with a viable and sustainable future,” Dr. Pinkard continued.
“As we prepare for the upcoming HLC comprehensive visit, Wilberforce University will meet all the standards of the Higher Learning Commission by restructuring academic programs and operations to enhance the educational experience at the institution.” Dr. Johnny D. Jones, Provost, Chief Academic Officer, and Wilberforce University HLC Liaison
Wilberforce students praise the university’s leadership and commitment to upholding high academic standards.
“This is another testament to Wilberforce University’s rich history as the nation’s first, private HBCU,” said Student Government Association VP, Alexander Murphy. “Being removed from probation means we will continue that historic legacy.”
Despite the temporary probation status, Wilberforce University continued to provide dedicated, globally competitive, quality education to its undergraduate, graduate, and adult degree (CLIMB) programs.
