The Commission on Colleges and Universities has launched a new brand identity, a decision supported by two East Texas higher education leaders serving on its board. Dr. Juan E. Mejia, President and CEO of Tyler Junior College (TJC), and Dr. J. Blair Blackburn, President of East Texas Baptist University (a TJC alumnus), both delegates on the commission’s board, backed the change. The rebranding aims to better reflect the organization’s expanded role as a national and international accreditor.
According to Dr. Mejia, the new name reflects its "nationwide authority, and worldwide credibility" in certifying academic excellence for institutions of higher learning. He further expressed his honor in representing TJC and East Texas on the commission, and in serving alongside Dr. Blackburn on the important work of accreditation.
Dr. Stephen L. Pruitt, president of The Commission on Colleges and Universities, stated that the new identity reflects "who we are today and where higher education is going." He added that the change "better reflects the scope of our work."
Despite the new identity, the commission’s fundamental accreditation authority and responsibilities remain unchanged. The accreditation status of its member colleges and universities also continues as before. During the transition period, references to the commission's previous identity, SACSCOC, may still appear as systems and resources are updated.
This rebranding follows TJC’s successful reaffirmation of its own accreditation in 2021, a process led by Dr. Mejia. During this rigorous review, Tyler Junior College met or exceeded all required accreditation standards. This achievement allows the college to maintain its accreditation until 2031. Dr. Mejia has affirmed TJC’s commitment to upholding strict standards for higher education, stating that the institution wholeheartedly supports the accreditation process and will do all possible to remain in good standing.
Tyler Junior College, founded in 1926, is a comprehensive public community college situated in East Texas. It offers a broad array of programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, certificates, and various workforce or vocational training options. TJC provides more than 135 programs of study spanning arts, sciences, health professions, business, technology, and trades, serving both traditional students and adult learners.
Annually, TJC serves nearly 20,000 students across its credit and non-credit programs, with over 16,000 enrolled in credit programs and approximately 4,000 in continuing studies. The college operates from its 145-acre central campus and additional sites, featuring rigorous academics, 70 national athletic championships, stellar fine and performing arts programs, modern residential facilities, and organizations and clubs that promote student engagement and diversity.
