Trident University Update (12-12-2011)

Just received this email...

Dear xxxx,


I am pleased to share with you important news from Trident that shows our continuing strength as a university and our ability to serve our students.

First, the Department of Defense (DoD) signed a Voluntary Educational Partnership Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Trident University International (TUI). As a University committed to educating uniformed service members and their families we respect the due diligence demonstrated by the DoD approval process which included consultation with WASC regarding our accreditation status. The consummation of the DoD MOU allows us to continue over a decade of service to the military community.


Even though we view the DOD MOU approval as an important milestone, the University remains focused on Show Cause and our efforts to address the issues identified by the WASC Commission. The WASC team visited the Trident campus on November 7-8 to conduct a review of the progress the institution has made in addressing the issues identified in the Show Cause action letter. We feel positive about the WASC visit and look forward to the Commission’s assessment of our progress at its February 2012 meeting. It is important to note that Trident University International's accreditation remains in place through the "Show Cause" period and degrees earned or courses completed during this time frame are fully accredited. We are focused on transforming our organizational structure, systems and processes to ensure student care and academic excellence. We are optimistic about the future and would like to provide you a brief overview of our progress to date.
The American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) was contracted to conduct third party audits of our processes and to train staff on institutional administrative best practices. AACRAO noted in its report, “the attitude of the institution observed on both visits has been one of sincere, serious concern for the institution and their students.” The AACRAO visits were followed by the WASC special visit to Trident University in November. The WASC Commission is scheduled to meet in February 2012 to review the visiting team’s report, assess our progress, and make a determination on Trident University’s continued accreditation. Any significant transformation begins with strong and committed leadership. It is my pleasure to announce that after a long and exhaustive search the Trident University International Board of Managers appointed Dr. Lucille Sansing as the President and CEO of Trident University International. Dr. Sansing possesses a solid track record of demonstrated leadership and commitment to a culture of academic and institutional integrity. Dr. Sansing recently joined Trident as our Provost and Executive Vice President. Prior to TUI she served for five years as the President of Argosy University – San Francisco Bay Area. Before joining Argosy Dr. Sansing served for 8 years as Provost of Notre Dame de Namur University, as Dean for Whitehead College at the University of Redlands and Associate Dean of Washington College. At the all-campus meeting this past week where this appointment was announced, Dr. Sansing said “I believe that Trident is a university with a great mission and great promise and am honored and humbled by this appointment.”
It has been my privilege to serve as Interim President and CEO of Trident University International. With the University in the very capable hands of Dr. Sansing, who brings extensive experience in leading a regionally accredited institution of higher education, and strong academic research and teaching credentials, I will transition back to our Board of Managers as Vice Chairman. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Dr. Sansing.
I am awed by the loyalty of our students and alumni and appreciative of the difficult work accomplished by our faculty and staff during my tenure. Trident University International will be a stronger institution resulting from the many improvements we have made during this period with the true beneficiaries being our loyal students. I thank you for your patience, trust and continued support as we position TUI to lead with integrity and excellence.

Respectfully yours,

Nolan Miura
Former Interim President and Chief Executive Officer

 

Sounds like good news.

I'm guessing their accreditation will be extended, but for a short period while they finish wrapping up issues.

The new president sounds like a good choice. University of Redlands is a good school, very well regarded in the area.