Newswise — Baldwin-Wallace College will undergo a comprehensive evaluation visit October 1-3 by a team representing the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Baldwin-Wallace College has been continuously accredited since 1915.

The Higher Learning Commission is one of six regional accrediting bodies in the United States. Institutions are accredited as a whole after an extensive self-study process to verify the quality of the institution and to ensure that it is committed to continuous improvement. Other agencies provide accreditation for specific programs. Accreditation is voluntary. The Commission accredits more than 1,000 institutions of higher education in a 19-state region. The Commission is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

For the past nearly two years, Baldwin-Wallace College has engaged in an extensive self-study process that addresses the criteria and standards for accreditation established by the Higher Learning Commission. The evaluation team will visit the institution to gather evidence that the self-study was thorough and accurate. Based on the visit and review of the College self-study document and supporting evidence, the team will make a recommendation to the Commission regarding the continuing status for the College. Based on that recommendation, the Commission will then take final action and determine the accreditation status of the College.

The public is invited to submit third-party comments regarding Baldwin-Wallace College to: Public Comment on Baldwin-Wallace College Higher Learning Commission North Central Association of Colleges and Schools 30 North LaSalle Street Suite 2400 Chicago, IL 60602-2504

Comments must address substantive issues related to the quality of the institution, it's academic programs or its service to the greater community. Written, signed comments must be received no later than September 1, 2007. The Commission cannot guarantee that comments received after this date will be considered. Comments should include the name, address, and telephone number of the person providing the comments. All comments will not be treated as confidential.

Note: Individuals with a specific dispute or grievance with an institution should request the separate Policy on Complaints document from the Commission office. The Higher Learning Commission cannot settle disputes between institutions and individuals. Complaints will not be considered third party comments.