University of Guam accredited for another eight years

By Pacific Island Times News Staff

The Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission has reaffirmed the University of Guam's accreditation for another eight years, marking the third consecutive review period with a reaffirmation. 

“This reaffirmation of accreditation is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty, staff, administrators and students," said Anita Borja Enriquez, UOG president, who expressed her pride in this accomplishment.

"It underscores our commitment to providing high-quality education and fostering a supportive high-impact learning environment. We are honored to receive such positive recognition and will continue to build on our strengths while addressing areas for growth," she added.

Jamienne S. Studley, WSCUC president and CEO, said UOG has "demonstrated remarkable resilience and commitment to academic quality.

Studley's letter of notification came following a WSCUC Review Team's visit and meeting with UOG administrators, faculty, staff, students and board members in February.

"The progress made in various domains is commendable, and we are confident in the institution’s direction and ongoing initiatives," she wrote.

The accreditation process involved a thorough evaluation of UOG's academic programs, institutional integrity, and commitment to student success.

The WSCUC accreditation review team conducted a site visit of the University of Guam from Feb. 28 to March 1 as part of the university’s reaffirmation of accreditation process. From left to right: Thomas Parham, team chair; Anita Borja Enriquez, UOG president; Susan Clapper, team assistant chair; and David Ely, team member, and Michael Carson, UOG associate professor of Archaeology. Photo courtesy of UOG

Following are WSCUC's key commendations:

1. Stable Leadership: Persevering through a series of challenges such as the pandemic, typhoon, and leadership changes, ensuring support for faculty, staff, and students throughout.

2. Commitment to Student Success: Participating in the American Association of State Colleges and Universities’ (AASCU) student success equity intensive, identifying barriers to student success, closing equity gaps, and supporting student success outcomes.

3. Academic Excellence through Island Wisdom: Designing and integrating island wisdom throughout the curriculum and co-curriculum to showcase Guam’s unique culture and identity, creating a distinctive higher education experience that positions the university as a mission-driven institution and a hub for partnerships with the local and regional communities.

4. Financial Management: Proposing and implementing a budget strategy that aligns the institution’s financial allocations with its highest priorities.

5. An Engaged Board of Regents: Garnering strong support from the Board of Regents, which demonstrated a deep understanding of the University of Guam’s challenges and opportunities, coupled with strategic planning for its future.

6. Community Engagement: Embodying its mission with a strong sense of collegiality, deeply rooted in the local culture, place, and community.

7. Research Impact: Deliberately expanding its research portfolio to benefit the community and region.

While the commission identified certain areas for development, such as enhancing student services and expanding online learning capabilities, Enriquez noted that many of these are actively being addressed by the university.

“Our accreditation by WSCUC reaffirms our status as a leading institution in the Pacific,” said Sharleen Santos-Bamba, senior vice president and provost. “It highlights the diversity and impact of our research, as well as our dedication to student success. We are excited to continue our journey of academic excellence and innovation.”

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