The Commission on Colleges and Universities, the accrediting body that certifies the academic excellence of higher learning institutions, has launched a new brand identity. The change reflects the commission's growth as a national and international accreditor.
Dr. Juan E. Mejia, President and CEO of Tyler Junior College, and Dr. J. Blair Blackburn, President of East Texas Baptist University, both serve as delegates on the commission’s board and supported this decision. Dr. Mejia represents TJC and East Texas on the commission’s board, and expressed honor to serve with Dr. Blackburn on this important work regarding accreditation.
The new identity highlights the organization’s expansion from a regional body. Dr. Mejia explained that the new name reflects its widespread national authority and global credibility in certifying the academic excellence of higher learning institutions.
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 the commission's work, the institutions it serves, and its vision for the future.
The commission’s accreditation authority and responsibilities remain unchanged, as does the accreditation status of member colleges and universities. During the transition, references to the commission's previous identity, SACSCOC, may continue to appear as systems and resources are updated.
Dr. Mejia is committed to upholding strict standards for higher education. He previously led Tyler Junior College through a rigorous process of reaffirming its accreditation in 2021. During that reaffirmation, TJC met or exceeded all accreditation standards, a process that allows the college to hold its accreditation until 2031. Dr. Mejia described the reaffirmation of accreditation as a significant achievement for any higher education institution. He affirmed TJC's belief in and support for the accreditation process, committing to all possible efforts to remain in good standing.
Tyler Junior College, founded in 1926, is a comprehensive public community college located in East Texas. The college offers a wide range of programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, certificates, and workforce or vocational training. TJC provides more than 135 programs of study in areas such as arts, sciences, health professions, business, technology, and trades, serving both traditional students and adult learners.
Tyler Junior College serves almost 20,000 students annually across its credit and non-credit programs, with over 16,000 enrolled in credit programs and nearly 4,000 in continuing studies. The institution strives to provide an educational experience designed to prepare students for success in their careers and communities.
Across its 145-acre central campus and multiple sites, TJC features academics, 70 national athletic championships, fine and performing arts programs, modern residential facilities, and various organizations and clubs that promote student engagement and diversity.
