President's Page - October 21, 2022

Greetings Barton Family! 

As you are aware, Barton has well prepared itself for the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) review that takes place next week.  In our goal to be accredited, our efforts can be traced back to at least 8 years.  Through this process of identifying evidence that addresses HLC standards, it is recognized that we stand for quality, professionalism, commitment to students, accountability to our public, and the importance of our College Mission.  I believe it is most impressive in the manner that faculty and staff have embraced the importance of accreditation and the desire to prove Barton’s unique stature in higher education. 

In preparation, you have received numerous communications and invitations to contribute.  I wish to identify the many teams that have spearheaded our preparations and documentation.  Below is a list of the individuals who were instrumental in preparing for the HLC Visit:

HLC Visit Preparation Team: 
Mark Dean
Jo Harrington
Maggie Harris
Karly Little
Angie Maddy
Myrna Perkins
Amye Schneider
Elaine Simmons 

Assurance Argument Writer:
Cathie Oshiro 

Federal Compliance Report Writer:
Myrna Perkins 

Evidence Collector:
Randy Thode 

Accreditation Newsletter Format:
Kaitlin DeWerff

Accreditation Committee | Report Assistance:
Janet Balk
Matt Connell
Mark Dean
Jo Harrington
Lindsay Holmes
Brian Howe
Stephanie Joiner
Kathy Kottas
Abby Kujath
Karly Little
Angie Maddy
Claudia Mather
Lee Miller
Todd Mobray
Cathie Oshiro
Myrna Perkins
Sarah Riegel
Elaine Simmons
Kurtis Teal
Randy Thode  

There are so many others who have lent a hand and helped with this as well!  This was truly a college-wide effort!

Please note the following newsletters and the Assurance Argument that has been well developed and catalogued.  It is all quite impressive.
Accreditation Newsletter 1 
Accreditation Newsletter 2 
Accreditation Newsletter 3 
Accreditation Newsletter 4
Accreditation Newsletter 5 
Accreditation Newsletter 6 

The HLC visit schedule provides a gauge as to the comprehensive nature in which we will be inspected and measured.  Should you have the opportunity to meet and provide feedback to an HLC team member, please feel free to speak as you believe.