K-State prepares for Higher Learning Commission Midcycle Accreditation Review

Tuesday, April 15, 2025

Kansas State University is preparing for its upcoming Higher Learning Commission, or HLC, Midcycle Accreditation Review scheduled for June 2026. K-State has maintained continuous accreditation through the HLC since 1916, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to academic excellence and institutional integrity.

As part of the HLC's 10-year accreditation cycle, universities undergo a comprehensive onsite review every decade, paired with a remote midcycle review at the four-year mark. Following a successful comprehensive review in April 2022, K-State is now focused on preparing for the midcycle review.

A dedicated team of university leaders and accreditation experts has started meeting regularly to review and revise K-State's Assurance Argument, a key document outlining how the university meets HLC's criteria. The group is building on the materials submitted in 2022 and incorporating updates reflecting developments and accomplishments since then.

Team members include Bin Ning, accreditation liaison officer, associate provost and chief data officer; Phil Payne, associate dean, Graduate School; Fred Burrack, HLC peer reviewer, director of assessment; Bill Watts, associate vice president, academic and career engagement; Brad Regier, associate director of assessment; and Chris DePerno, fellow, academic and career engagement.

In the months ahead, the team will collaborate with units and individuals across campus to gather supporting documentation and examples of progress. These materials will help shape the draft of the updated Assurance Argument.

The university community will receive periodic updates as preparations continue — ensuring transparency, engagement and shared ownership of this important process.