Parker College of Chiropractic has received an unusual and impressive evaluation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

A recent accreditation review included almost unprecedented results: absolutely no suggestions or recommendations regarding necessary improvements to meet Association educational standards.

Adding to the excitement is the fact that the SACS committee gave Parker three commendations for excellence in faculty dedication, information services and self-study evaluation and planning.

College faculty earned praise for their dedication and loyalty to students and to the college. The information services department was applauded for the advanced campus-wide computer technology available to students and staff. The Center for Institutional Research and Analysis, which conducted the institutional self-study, was commended for its processes in planning and follow-through.

Parker hosted a seven-member SACS Committee from in Feb. 2002, undergoing an extensive peer evaluation to determine reaffirmation of accreditation. Accreditation makes an institution's students eligible for financial aid and grants, allows for transferability of credits and affirms to the public and peers that an institution is dedicated to educational excellence.

Following the visiting SACS committee exit interview, Parker College President Dr. Fabrizio Mancini called a meeting of the entire student body, faculty and staff to announce the results. "Today, we made history," Mancini said. "It is as if we won a gold medal in the Olympics. This year marks Parker's 20th anniversary, and a perfect peer review adds to our many reasons for celebrating."

"These kind of results are almost unheard of," said Parker Vice President of Administration, Dr. Neil Stern, who oversaw Parker's self-study process. "In my 30 years of serving on accreditation committees, I have never experienced anything quite like this. Our peers have looked at us under a very high powered microscope and said we are doing things right! Parker's team has raised the bar higher than ever, setting the standard in Higher and Professional Education in the Southern region. I am overwhelmed with pride for each member of the Parker family - students, faculty and staff alike - because each one of us has contributed to this success."

SACS visiting committee members were from East Tennessee State University, Louisiana State University, Samford University, Greensboro College, the University of Bridgeport, and Clark Atlanta University. Dr. Gerald Lord served as the SACS representative for the Commission on Colleges.