Once every decade, Knox undergoes a year-long evaluation process by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). After a comprehensive review of the College's academic offerings, governance and administration, mission, finances, and resources , this month the HLC issued its formal 10-year reaccreditation of the College.

"Knox College has a long and proud history of access and inclusion and remains a high-quality institution that is striving to adapt to the changing conditions in American higher education," HLC investigators noted in their final report summary. "The College remains mission-focused and has provided ample evidence of strong leadership from the Board of Trustees, the administration, and the faculty as they work together to meet the ongoing financial challenges of a highly tuition-dependent school."

The Higher Learning Commission is an independent agency that monitors the quality of degree-granting institutions over a 19-state area. The organization ensured the quality of the College’s programs via an intensive peer-review process that included a two-day visit to the College in January.

"The work to prepare for this process was over a year in length, and many members of the Knox community—faculty, staff, trustees and students—were involved in the process," said Knox College President Teresa Amott. 

Accreditation was reaffirmed by the HLC with no requirements for any monitoring or interim reports. 

“HLC reaccreditation is an assurance to our students that all aspects of the College meet nationally recognized standards," said Amott. "The continuation of our accreditation confirms our commitment to Knox's mission and our dedication to a quality liberal arts education.”

Knox College has been continuously accredited since 1913. Accreditation is required for colleges and universities to receive federal funds for student financial aid and research. 

"Congratulations to the entire Knox community for a decade's worth of excellent work and dedication to our mission," said Amott. "Onward to the next decade!"

Read Knox's Assurance Argument, submitted in December 2019, and the HLC's Final Report on Knox .