PRESS RELEASE FROM SEARK:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Southeast Arkansas College (SEARK) proudly announces that the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) has reaffirmed the College’s accreditation and removed its probation status, marking a major milestone in the institution’s continued commitment to excellence, accountability, and student success.
The decision reflects years of focused work by SEARK faculty, staff, administration, and the Board of Trustees to strengthen institutional processes, enhance academic quality, and build a culture of continuous improvement.
“This is a proud day for Southeast Arkansas College and the communities we serve,” said Dr. Tyrone Jackson, President of Southeast Arkansas College. “The removal of probation is the result of the unwavering commitment and hard work of our faculty, staff, administrators, and Board of Trustees.
Together, we embraced the challenge of strengthening our institution, and today we celebrate a significant achievement that positions SEARK for an even brighter future. Most importantly, this outcome reinforces our promise to provide our students with an exceptional educational experience.”
The Higher Learning Commission recognized the College’s progress in institutional planning, governance, assessment, academic quality, fiscal responsibility, and student success initiatives. The successful review demonstrates that SEARK meets the Commission’s rigorous standards for quality and effectiveness.
Dr. Donna Hunnicutt, Vice President of Instruction and Student Success and Accreditation Liaison Officer, said the accomplishment represents a collective institutional effort.
“Removing probation is a reflection of what can be accomplished when an entire college community works together toward a common goal,” said Dr. Donna Hunnicutt. “Every department, every employee, and every member of our leadership team played a role in this success. Accreditation is about demonstrating our commitment to students through continuous improvement, strong academic programs, and sound institutional practices. While we are proud of this achievement, we view it as the beginning of our next chapter of excellence.”
Throughout the accreditation process, SEARK implemented numerous improvements designed to strengthen institutional effectiveness, enhance student support services, improve assessment practices, and ensure long-term sustainability.
Dr. Jackson emphasized that the College remains committed to building on this momentum. “This accomplishment affirms the strength of Southeast Arkansas College and the direction we are headed,” Dr. Jackson said. “Our work does not end here. We will continue to innovate, expand opportunities for our students, strengthen partnerships throughout Southeast Arkansas, and fulfill our mission of transforming lives through education.”
The College extends its appreciation to the Higher Learning Commission review team, the Board of Trustees, faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community partners whose dedication and support contributed to this successful outcome.
With accreditation reaffirmed and probation removed, Southeast Arkansas College is well positioned to continue providing accessible, high-quality education while serving as a catalyst for workforce development, economic growth, and student success across Southeast Arkansas.
