Publication Date
4-1-2023
Abstract
Last week during the quarterly meeting of the ETSU Board of Trustees, our staff presented the results of the recent State of the University Survey. I was pleased — but not surprised — to see that students, faculty, and staff overwhelmingly rated East Tennessee State University as a strong community with a positive and supportive atmosphere. Perhaps even more importantly, survey respondents were nearly unanimous in saying they believe ETSU is fulfilling its charge to improve the quality of life for people in the region and beyond.
This steadfast commitment to our mission is one of the best and most unique characteristics of this institution. It permeates every level of our university and is not only noticed, but also admired by visitors to our campus and peers across the higher education system. This was made evident a few weeks ago when ETSU hosted a peer review team as part of our 10-year reaffirmation of accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
One word repeatedly entered reviewers’ assessment of our campus: “sincerity.” The review team was deeply impressed by the sincerity of our commitment to our mission, this institution, and the public purpose of higher education. To borrow from the theme of the recently announced fifth annual Equity and Inclusion Conference, at ETSU, we go beyond “checking a box.” We dedicate our hearts, minds, and hands to making the world a better place.
ETSU received a glowing review from SACSCOC, reaffirming our position as a premier higher education institution. I would like to thank the many members of our faculty, staff, and student body who helped during the reaffirmation process. I would particularly like to thank Provost Dr. Kimberly McCorkle, Dr. Cheri Clavier, Dr. Mike Hoff, and Dr. Susan McCracken, who all worked tirelessly for months to tell our story and showcase the exemplary scholarship, teaching, research, and service occurring at this institution.
As we head into the final weeks of the spring 2023 semester, our university has much to celebrate. Take time to enjoy this season of celebration and to recognize and appreciate the hard work it has taken to reach this point.
Godspeed, and go Bucs.
Brian Noland, Ph.D.
President
Document Type
News Article
