CWRU Earns Reaccreditation from Higher Learning Commission
Case Western Reserve University has earned reaffirmation of its accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), marking a significant milestone in the university’s longstanding commitment to academic excellence and institutional integrity.
CWRU has been continuously accredited by the HLC since 1913, and this most recent reaffirmation follows a comprehensive review process as part of the commission’s 10-year accreditation cycle. The next comprehensive review will take place in 2034–35.
In March, the university submitted a 34,725-word assurance argument—a detailed document demonstrating compliance with the Higher Learning Commission’s core criteria for accreditation—along with several hundred supporting evidence documents. The HLC’s criteria assess institutions based on mission, integrity, quality of teaching and learning, and institutional effectiveness.
In parallel with the assurance argument, the university also submitted a federal compliance report, another required component of the HLC review process. This report underwent a separate review to ensure the university meets all federal regulations tied to accreditation. CWRU was found to be fully in compliance with all federal requirements.
In April, a team of HLC peer reviewers visited campus to meet with faculty, staff, and students—evaluating firsthand how CWRU lives out its mission and supports its community.
The review team’s findings were overwhelmingly positive.
In its report, the HLC team praised CWRU for strong faculty engagement, robust academic advising, and comprehensive support services. The team also recognized the university’s vibrant co-curricular opportunities, impactful research contributions, and experienced leadership team aligned around clear strategic priorities.
“This reaccreditation affirms the extraordinary dedication of our faculty, staff, and students,” President Eric W. Kaler said. “It reflects our community’s shared commitment to academic rigor, student success, and research that serves the public good.”
Provost and Executive Vice President Joy K. Ward echoed these sentiments.
“Our reaccreditation is a testament to the strength of our academic programs and the vibrant learning environment we foster at Case Western Reserve,” Ward said. “I am proud of how our entire community came together to showcase the best of what we do—and who we are.”
The successful outcome was made possible by the leadership of Senior Vice Provost for Academic and Faculty Affairs Donald Feke, who served as CWRU’s accreditation liaison. Feke coordinated the university-wide effort, ensuring that the assurance argument and campus visit reflected CWRU’s values, strengths, and vision for the future.
Equally essential was the extraordinary work of Kathleen Horvath, professor of music and associate provost for academic affairs, who served as the primary author of the assurance argument and led the meticulous process of gathering and organizing the hundreds of supporting evidence documents. Their combined efforts were instrumental to the university’s successful reaccreditation.
“We are deeply grateful to Don and Kathleen for their tireless work and steady leadership throughout this process,” Ward added. “Their expertise and commitment were vital to our success.”
As the university looks ahead, this reaccreditation not only validates past achievements—it strengthens CWRU’s foundation for continuous growth and excellence in the years to come.
