As we begin a new year together, I want to offer an update on the work that continues to move this Commission forward and to thank you for the steady commitment you bring to your institutions and to the students you serve. Over the past several months, I’ve seen firsthand the determination, creativity, and optimism that define our membership, and I remain honored to serve alongside you.

December was an especially meaningful month for SACSCOC, as the Board of Trustees concluded its work with several actions that strengthen clarity, streamline processes, and reinforce our mission. I want to highlight a few of these important developments.

Highlights from the December Board Meeting

One of the most significant actions taken by the Board was the approval of substantial changes to our Substantive Change policy and procedures. These revisions are grounded in clarity, alignment, and trust to ensure our oversight remains rigorous while removing unnecessary barriers for institutions.

According to the Board’s actions:

• 51% of substantive change categories were removed, reducing complexity and helping institutions more easily determine what is required.
• Seven categories were reassigned for presidential approval, reducing turnaround time to as little as one week after final materials are received.
• The Emergency Temporary Relocation of Instruction policy has been discontinued.
• The Board approved two reduced-hour baccalaureate degrees at the University of Lynchburg, with a new policy framework forthcoming.

These changes represent a strong step toward the “next evolution of SACSCOC”, one grounded in clarity, responsiveness, and the confidence that our institutions are committed to doing the right things.

Law or Lore: January Highlights & What’s Coming Next

I also want to thank the many of you who have followed along with our Law or Lore series. This monthly Torch Report now includes a dedicated reminder of new installments, which continue to address some of the most persistent misunderstandings in accreditation. This month I had installments on Credit for Prior Learning, Hold Harmless for the QEP, and Does SACSCOC Accreditation Stifle Creativity and Innovation. Up next, we will look into topics regarding Institutional Governance, Using Course Grades as Assessment Evidence, and Using Grades as Meaningful Assessment Evidence.

Looking Ahead

Our 100-Day Plan continues to guide our efforts to strengthen service, communication, and cross-team alignment. Work is well underway across multiple initiatives, including the early stages of revising the Principles of Accreditation, a major undertaking that will shape the future of our work and the institutions we serve. With the new standards, expected to be approved in December of 2026, we are suspending all new training on the old standards as we plan to provide training for all new and veteran reviewers beginning in 2027.

Thank you for your continued partnership, your candid feedback, and your commitment to our shared mission. The path ahead is bright, and I’m grateful to walk it with each of you.

Be Bold; Stay Gold.

Dr. Stephen L. Pruitt
SACSCOC President