Our Lady of Holy Cross College Commits to Meet SACS' Governance Standards

Our Lady of Holy Cross College
OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
 
Dear Board of Ambassadors,
 
As a result of the review by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) of the College’s governance structure, I have been notified that the College has been placed on a six-month probation, during which time the College will have the opportunity to further clarify its structure and make changes, if necessary, to bring our governance structure into SACS compliance.

It is important to stress that during this probationary period the College will continue to retain its accreditation and classes and other academic activities will continue uninterrupted and unaffected.
 

It is also significant that our excellent curriculum, quality of instruction, and sound financial condition were never in question by SACS.  We will not receive the official letter from SACS outlining specific issues until January 2012.   However, in notifying Sr. Suellen Tennyson, Congregational Leader and Chair of the Members of the Corporation, she reiterated that, “The Members” intend to comply with SACS standards, thereby maintaining accreditation for the College.
 
The governance questions were raised by SACS following the late August reconstitution of the Board of Regents, which prompted a request for detailed written explanation.  The College promptly complied with this request. I am disappointed with this action by SACS; yet I am confident and committed that we will act quickly and properly to maintain our SACS accreditation.
 
Since 1966, the College has operated under a separate, non-profit corporation. Like many Catholic colleges and universities, in order to comply with Catholic Church law requirements and to ensure that the Catholic identity, mission, vision and values are lived out in the organization, there are two tiers of governance at the College. Under the present Articles and Bylaws, The Members of the Corporation retain the higher level of governing authority, while delegating responsibility for day-to-day operations to the Board of Regents.
 
I hope this information helps clarify these issues for you.  I will update you at our next Board of Ambassadors’ meeting in February. In the meantime, please do not hesitate to call me if you have any questions or concerns.
 
Sincerely,
 
 
 
        Myles M. Seghers, Ph.D.
                Interim President
 
Our Lady of Holy Cross College
   “A Ministry of  the Marianites of Holy Cross”
             4123 Woodland Drive
           New Orleans, LA 70131
                 504-398-2109