In February 2008, the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) site team recommended a focused visit on assessment in three years. We are being asked to address major aspects of university culture and programming, particularly related to general-education assessment. Participating in the Assessment Academy of HLC will replace the follow-up focus visit mandated for 2010–2011, provided that we make sufficient progress.

Our participation aligns with YSU’s comprehensive strategic planning process. This initiative also enables us to work with colleagues at related universities and to collaborate with mentors who have been through such processes. Below are the eight members of YSU’s Assessment Academy Team:

• Cynthia Anderson, Vice President for Student Affairs
• Cheryl Bosley, Coordinator of Academic Advising, Associate Professor of Nursing
• Bege Bowers, Associate Provost
• Chet Cooper, Professor of Biological Sciences & Chair, Academic Senate
• Michael Crist, Chair and Professor, Dana School of Music
• Shearle Furnish, Dean of College of Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
• Julia Gergits, Coordinator of General Education & Professor of English
• Sharon Stringer, Director of Assessment (Team Leader)

The Academy team will seek ongoing input from the campus to define specific goals, recruit leaders who will help accomplish tasks, and describe the timeline for two major student learning projects. YSU is required to post specific plans for each project on the electronic network of the HLC Academy by February 2009. Mentors and consultants from the HLC will provide ongoing feedback.