Episodes

In this episode of the Accreditation Insights podcast, I am pleased to welcome Chuck Ambrose, co-author of the seminal book, "Colleges on theBrink." This book is an indispensable resource, offering deep insights andguidance for seasoned and aspiring administrators. Our rich and enlightening discussion examined the pressing challenges presented in the book within the context of today's higher education landscape. We explored strategic approaches for institutions grappling with existential threats...

In this episode of the Accreditation Insights podcast, we're honored to host K. Rzucidlo M.S., a fourth-year Ph.D. candidate at Howard University, making significant strides in accreditation research focusing on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Fresh from presenting at the 2025 CHEA conference, K. Rzucidlo shares insights from their research and the impactful discussions on the conference theme “Quality Assurance in an Era of Change: Reflect, Reimagine, Recommit." Needing in...

In this episode of the Accreditation Insights podcast, we're joined by André Foisy, a Ph.D. candidate in the Department of Educational Policy & Leadership at the University of Albany and the Director of Assessment and Program Review at SUNY Empire State University. André brings awealth of experience from his roles in assessment and accreditation, and as a2022 CHEA fellow. In our discussion, he shares his insights on how institutionalaccreditation can be viewed as a policy-guided negotiation. Nee...

In this episode of the Accreditation Insights podcast, we have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Yates, a seasoned expertin the field of accreditation. Dr. Yates serves as the Director ofAccreditation at the INTERNATIONAL ACCREDITATION COUNCIL FOR BUSINESS EDUCATION (IACBE),where she is pivotal in mentoring members, facilitating site visits, and overseeing comprehensive accreditation and compliance submission reviews. Her extensive experience in academia and the business sector gives her a unique pers...

In this episode, we're delighted to haveCatherine Wehlburg, President of Athens University in Alabama, an esteemed accreditation figure, join us again. Recently, Catherine attended the Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) conference, and she's here to share her valuable insights and reflections. We'll also discuss her latest activities in accreditation and address any emerging challenges she sees on the horizon. Topics Discussed Presidential takeaways from the recentCHEA conference...

In this episode, Shanderson and Pillarexplore the surface of how dismantling the DOE and political control caninfluence educational policy, specifically around the crucial aspect of accreditation and its broader impact on institutions, students, and the educational landscape. Topics Discussed Life without a Department of Education The most vulnerable to policy shifts in accreditation Navigating the unknown in an era of change Needing institutional or programmaticaccreditation support? Conta...

In this episode, Dr. Tricia BertramGallant, a globally recognized thought leader, speaker, and author in the fields of academic integrity, ethics, and teaching, has made significantcontributions to understanding and fostering integrity in education,particularly in this transformative era of artificial intelligence, is back to provideinvaluable guidance for educators, administrators, and policymakers. In thisepisode, we discuss the evolving definition of academic integrity in thedigital age, the ...

In this episode of Accreditation Insights, we're diving into the complex world of maintaining accreditation during institutional mergers. Tamara Ruth Ferry (retired) is joining us - an expert in accreditation processes and strategic planning. She is known for her role during the merger at Concordia University, which serves as an exemplar for institutional mergers today. We'll explore the challenges and strategies for preserving accreditation status during significant transitions. Topics Discuss...

In this episode, we're joined by a very special guest, Dan Futrell, who is at the helm of Polymath University, an innovative institution that seeks toredefine interdisciplinary learning. Dan shares the unique accreditation journeyfor Polymath University, highlighting the unique considerations faced. Thisconversation offers invaluable insights into the initial vision of fostering interdisciplinary learning at Polymath University, and that has shapedits approach to accreditation. Topics Discussed...

In this episode we welcome Edward M. Cramp, a distinguished lawyer and educator fresh from the Council of Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) conference, who brings a unique legal viewpoint to higher education accreditation. As an adjunct faculty member at Drexel University and a leader in the Duane Morris Education industry group, Mr. Cramp has a profound understanding of the intricacies of accreditation, regulatoryissues, and higher education law. Topics Discussed Impressions from the CHEA...

In this episode today, we are thrilled to have Dr. Archinya Ingram join us. Archinya brings an impressive 19-year tenure in higher education, marked by her dedication to academic administration, accreditation, and strategic planning. As a trailblazer in her field, she has been a vital force at Clinton College, serving in various capacities including Interim President and Senior Vice President. Notably, Archinya has made significant contributions as a PeerEvaluator for the Transnational Associati...

Welcome to another episode of theAccreditation Insights podcast. Today, we're joined by guest Dr. RobertoMaurice Robert, a visionary leader and distinguished educator whose expertisespans across education management, Christian ministry, leadership, anddiplomacy. Dr. Robert has played pivotal roles as the Founder, Chancellor, andPresident of the 21st Century Open University and has contributed significantly to the field of accreditation in various capacities. Join us as we delve into his extensiv...

This is a truly inspiring episode! Dr. James Genandt joins us as President and Chief Executive Officer of Manhattan Area Technical College, an institution that has recently earned a perfect report from the Higher Learning Commission! This outstanding achievement reflects a comprehensive commitment to meeting and exceeding educational standards. In this episode, Dr. Genandt shares the behind-the-scenes work that led to this success, the profound impact on their community, and the lessons learned ...

In this special episode of the Accreditation Insights podcast, we're honored to have Dr. Melva K. Wallace, the transformative President and CEO of Huston-Tillotson University. Dr. Wallace has over twenty years of higher education leadership and advocacy under her belt. In this episode, we explore her impactful journey and the innovative strategies that have propelled Huston-Tillotson University to new heights under her leadership. Topics Discussed Transition from corporate America to higher ed...

Tune in to this riveting episode of the Accreditation Insights podcast, where we delve into groundbreaking research and unveil the substantial benefits of accreditation for students. This episode, sponsored by JETPACK by Virtual Atlantic, is a must-listen for anyone connected to the field of accreditation. In it, we reveal compelling evidence that validates the crucial role of accreditation in higher education. Join us as we discuss this pioneering study with Drs. Daniel Fisher, William Opoku A...

In this episode of Accreditation Insights we are joined by Chris Morett, a strategic space planner with extensive experience in enhancing the utility and effectiveness of campus and workplace environments. Chris brings a wealth of knowledge from his work with colleges, universities, and diverse organizations, focusing on creating impactful, efficient, and equitable spaces. Today, we'll delve into how accreditation standards can guide and improve the strategic planning of educational and workplac...

In this episode of Accreditation Insights, we sit down with Dr. Steve M. Rose, President of Passaic County Community College (PCCC) and Commissioner, Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). Dr. Rose shares insights from his decades-long career expanding and transforming community colleges. His experience with substantial growth and structural change at PCCC offers valuable lessons for institutions looking to navigate similar paths. The discussion will delve into the intricacies of ...

In this episode, Dr. Tricia Bertram Gallant, a globally recognized thought leader, speaker, and author in the fields of academic integrity, ethics, and teaching, has made significant contributions to understanding and fostering integrity in education, particularly in this transformative era of artificial intelligence, provides invaluable guidance for educators, administrators, and policymakers. In this episode, we discuss the evolving definition of academic integrity in the digital age, the rol...

We welcome Dr. Daniel E. Martin to the Accreditation Insights Podcast in this episode. Dr. Martin is a distinguished scholar and leader in compassion education, organizational psychology, and social capital. He is the Director of Compassion Education at Stanford University's Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) and an Associate Professor of Management at California State University, East Bay. Topics Discussed Compassion Education The intersection of compassion, ed...

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Tamara Ferry, a seasoned leader in accreditation and institutional effectiveness with a remarkable 25-year tenure at Concordia University, which her mission-driven approach to higher education has defined. As a lifelong Lutheran learner with expertise in urban education and educational psychology, Dr. Ferry brings a unique perspective on how faith-based institutions can balance their spiritual missions with the demands of accreditation. From navigating the evolvin...

In this episode, we explore the expert insights of Dr. Zeinab Mostafavi, a distinguished new PhD specializing in higher education accreditation. She has developed a keen interest in how online tools can enhance the assessment processes within higher education institutions. She has contributed significantly to our understanding of effective assessment strategies in a digital era through her extensive research and practical involvement. Topics Discussed Innovations in Accreditation Challenges of...

In this episode of Accreditation Insights, Olgun Cicek, an esteemed expert in accreditation and quality assurance, shares his wealth of experience in fostering institutional excellence across diverse educational systems. With a career dedicated to advancing global education standards, Olgun discusses the evolving role of accreditation in driving innovation, ensuring accountability, and addressing the unique challenges higher education institutions face today. Listeners will gain valuable insight...

In this engaging episode of Accreditation Insights, Virginia McMunn, Director of Accreditation and Continuous Improvement at Oakland University shares her journey from classroom teaching to leading transformative initiatives in accreditation and education. Drawing from her extensive experience in K-12 and higher education, Virginia highlights the pivotal role of accreditation in fostering continuous improvement, equity, and institutional success. Through practical examples and thoughtful insight...

Welcome to the first episode of the 2025 season of Accreditation Insights! Today we're diving into a thoughtful discussion with Greg Pillar, Assistant Provost for Academic Affairs at Gardner-Webb University. Greg recently penned a compelling response to Derek Newton’s article "Five Education Predictions for 2025," challenging and expanding upon the future landscape of higher education. Today, we'll explore the nuances of these predictions, Greg's insights from his extensive experience, and what ...