January 2005

Life receives SACS accreditation

After a two‑year battle, Life University received re‑affirmation of its accreditation status from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). This replaces the probationary status that had been attached to Life for the past two years and puts the University on solid footing with this key accrediting agency. This news comes two weeks after the university received a six‑month deferral from the Council of Chiropractic Education (CCE).

“The Life community has worked tirelessly over the past two years to gain the confidence of its alumni, the chiropractic profession and the local community,” remarked President Guy Riekeman, DC. “Without the confidence and support of those groups our efforts would have been futile. The dedication of the faculty, staff, students and alumni is unlike anything I've ever seen.”

According to SACS, its decision to re‑affirm Life's accreditation status was based on all previous site recommendations being resolved. Both SACS and CCE have commended Life's faculty for maintaining the quality of the academic program despite the circumstances of the past two years.

“The past several years have been very challenging and heart‑wrenching for me,” said Dr. Chuck Ribley, chairman of the Board of Trustees. “I knew deep down this day would come and words cannot express the tremendous joy I feel. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all those that have supported the University over the past two years because without their commitment we wouldn't have made it to this day.”

Enrollment at Life University currently exceeds 1,200 students and, for the first time in three years, the university is operating on a surplus, overcoming a $19 million loss in 2003.

With Life's future secure, the university is focusing its full attention on increasing enrollment, developing a strategic plan for the next three years and implementing ongoing development plans. CCE accreditation will be finalized in July 2005, following a site visit in the spring of 2005.

“We are absolutely moving forward at full steam and look toward the future with a renewed sense of confidence,” said Riekeman. “We have accomplished what many have said was impossible and our efforts after this moment will be focused on continuing to build the University into a world‑class health care institution.”