HLGU says it remains ‘fully accredited’ during probationary period

HANNIBAL, Mo. – Hannibal-LaGrange University responded Tuesday after the announcement from the Higher Learning Commission that the school had been placed on two years of probation after a review of financial matters.

In an announcement earlier this week, the HLC determined HLGU is out of compliance with three of the accreditation criteria — sufficient board autonomy, resource base and future financial projection. The HLC expressed concern about the institution on another criterion — sufficiency of faculty and staff.

In a news release issued Tuesday, HLGU officials said the school’s status has changed from financially distressed to accredited (probation).

“During this season, HLC will review how the school and its Board of Trustees have addressed three financial issues out of 47 core components and assumed practices used to accredit universities. This affords HLGU a reasonable period to demonstrate sustained fiscal and enrollment health,” the release read. “We are grateful for the HLC’s partnership with HLGU and their commitment to coming alongside us to ensure that these financial challenges do not occur again.”

“We are working closely with the HLC,” Board of Trustees Chairman Dr. Mark Anderson said. “We have already taken substantive steps to address the matters identified by HLC.”

“Great days are ahead for HLGU. Faculty, staff, students and their families, alumni, donors and friends can be confident in the quality of an HLGU education,” HLGU President Robert Matz said.

HLGU is working on a strategic planning process that includes community members and churches partnering with the college to identify “key strategic initiatives.” Early results of these plans include a full tuition partnership with the Hannibal Regional Healthcare System and the Pathways to Proficiency program, which allows those working in local school systems to become licensed teachers without leaving their current classrooms.