Higher Learning Commission visits GSU

Governor's State University is committed to continuous improvement, and this April a visit from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) proved that dedication pays off. The HLC is the regional accrediting arm of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, which approves universities to offer degrees. Although they typically visit every 10 years, their last visit to GSU was in 2009. At the 2009 visit, HLC officials offered some suggestions for the university to improve upon.
According to Associate Provost Dr. Sandra Mayfield, these areas included the university's online programs and the assessment of
student learning. To approve these areas, the HLC granted GSU permission to add online programs that were not available before.
Now, these programs are assessed to make sure that students in the online courses are learning comparably to those in the classroom.
As for assessment improvements, Mayfield says GSU applied to become a member of an assessment academy of the HLC to help the institution develop a student assessment program. They also established an institution effectiveness committee to assess the entire student experience, not just the academics.
"The IEC looks at how effective we are in offering student support services, how effective we are in getting students their financial aid when they need it," said Mayfield "They look at the things that aren't necessarily academic, but are necessary for students to move through the university."
The April 15 and 16 visit included interviews with students and staff. The HLC was pleased with the university's progress. GSU received a favorable exit report, and is expecting a detailed report in the next few weeks. The HLC also evaluated the university's preparations for the incoming freshmen, and received approval to move forward.
"The HLC wants to see continuous improvement," said Mayfield "We still have things to do but we're working in the right direction." Students and faculty can also submit their suggestions for improvements through the GSU website. By visiting www.govst.edu/whynot, university
members are able to describe problems they see and offer suggestions to improve them.
"All those suggestions are important because they feed into us all working together to try to make things better," said Mayfield.