Albany State University-Darton State College consolidation gains SACS approval
Approval final step needed for authorization of new Albany State University
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From Staff Reports
ATLANTA — The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) gave its approval Tuesday to the consolidation plans of Albany State University and Darton State College. University system of Georgia Board of Regents Chancellor Hank Huckaby first announced the consolidation plan to create the new combined institution in November 2015.
Officials from SACSCOC, the regional body for the accreditation of degree-granting higher education in the Southern states, announced the approval of the prospectus submitted for the new institution during the group’s annual meeting held in Atlanta.
SACSCOC’s approval represents the final step needed for the Board of Regents to review and grant authorization for the consolidated institution to officially operate as the new Albany State University. The board is scheduled to review the final recommendation for consolidation at its Dec. 9 telephonic meeting.
“The approval by SACSCOC is the critical step needed in showing the University System’s commitment to the Albany community and Southwest Georgia,” Huckaby said. “Creating the new Albany State University will allow us to create an even greater impact on the economy and higher education for the citizens of the region.”
The new institution will expand its mission, including providing access and degree programs, by offering certificates and associate degrees through master’s degrees. With the completion of the consolidation, set to take effect on Jan. 1, the number of institutions in the University System of Georgia will be reduced to 28.
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