Lee College has achieved a historic milestone — earning a perfect review from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), the institutional accreditor that ensures colleges uphold the highest standards of academic quality and continuous improvement.
Every decade, colleges and universities undergo an extensive review to confirm that their programs, practices, and outcomes meet rigorous benchmarks. In preparation for this evaluation, Lee College conducted a comprehensive self-study examining every aspect of its operations, from classroom instruction and student support to governance and community partnerships.
A visiting team of ten higher education peer reviewers confirmed Lee College met all 74 standards with zero findings, a rare and distinguished outcome. This is the first time in its history that Lee College has received no recommendations.
“Students are at the center of everything we do. This achievement reflects our relentless pursuit to improve the quality of life for every single student we serve,” said Dr. Lynda Villanueva, President of Lee College. “The community owns this college. Our community deserves a college that is both a source of pride and a wise investment. Earning a perfect accreditation review simply demonstrates that we are serving the community better than ever before. I am so honored to have the privilege of serving this amazing community.”
“Our review reflects Lee College’s unwavering commitment to its students and to the communities it serves,” said Gilbert Santana, Chairman of the Lee College Board of Regents. “The Board is proud to support a college that consistently delivers exceptional opportunities and stands as a cornerstone of progress and promise for Southeast Texas.”
During their visit, Dr. Tim W. Merrill, SACSCOC Affirmation Chair, remarked on what truly distinguishes Lee College.
“The culture of care and love here is palpable,” he observed.
That spirit of care, combined with the relentless pursuit of academic excellence, ensures that Lee College remains one of the most respected and student-centered institutions in the nation.
For more information about Lee College’s accreditation, academic programs, and workforce training opportunities, visit www.lee.edu.
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Pictured: During the onsite visit in October, Lee College President Dr. Lynda Villanueva and Dr. Douglas Walcerz, provost and vice president of Academic and Student Affairs, stand with Board of Regents Chair Gilbert Santana; Regents Daryl Fontenot, Pam Warford and Mark Himsel; and members of the SACSCOC review team, including Dr. Tim Merrill, Dr. Crystal Reed, Dr. Fiona Chrystall, Dr. Craig Jackson, Dr. Heidi Popham, Les Salter, Dr. David Townsend, Dr. Traci Williams and Dr. Geoffrey Klein.