Consultant-Evaluators (C-Es)make up the visiting teams that evaluate institutions of higher education and provide initial recommendations for accreditation actions on those institutions. Each team includes members with particular areas of specialization within higher education. The work of the Consultant-Evaluator is central to the Commission's accreditation process, which is based on peer review.

As C-Es, Dr. Maher and Dr. Blevins will take part in an intensive three-day training session in February, during which they will conduct a mock campus site visit, write reports, and render a recommendation.

"One of the most significant benefits Consultant-Evaluators derive from their experience involves the opportunity to broaden our experience as we view the ideas and strategies of other institutions and share points of view with our colleagues on the visiting teams," Dr. Maher noted. "We can also enhance our understanding of what accreditors are looking for in their evaluation of an institution."

"Consultant-Evaluators shoulder a significant responsibility," Dr. Blevins added. "An institution of higher education must have Higher Learning Commission approval before it can seek specialty accreditation and receive funds from the U.S. Department of Education."

C-Es evaluate the entire institution, including its financial health, to determine the institution's ability to fulfill its mission.

January 26, 2004