Accredation Commission Report

By Andrew Walzer

"Santa Monica College... is experiencing a renaissance of creativity and constructive collaboration. The college culture values innovation, originality, and student-centeredness."

"Santa Monica College is actively engaged in providing excellent student learning programs and services for its students."

"Student Support Services at Santa Monica College are comprehensive, diverse, and targeted at student access, inclusion, and success.... Students are the central focus and programs are developed to adapt to the changing needs of the student body."

"The Independent Auditor's Report listed zero audit findings, an outstanding accomplishment. The audit statements demonstrate the college's ability to manage their finances responsibly, timely, accurately, and with integrity."

"Trustees are all activists in the community and .... are dedicated to enhancing and forging new linkages to surrounding agencies and feeder school districts."

"There is no doubt that the constituent groups at the college are well represented and involved in the decision-making processes. There is an environment of openness, of optimism, and of excitement in spite of a gloomy budget situation external to the college."

"The college celebrates diversity in the classroom and creates events outside the classroom that reinforce the commitment to appreciating diversity."

"They are also to be commended for their work in Basic skills and in the "Back-to-Success" Program that works with probationary students to aid them in retention and persistence.

"The college has put considerable effort into pursuing external funding. They have had success and have accrued more than $6 million in grants and partnership funding over the last several years. The college has also been successful in expanding its financial aid disbursements."

"Santa Monica College has adopted sustainability as a college value and goal. The college is a leader among community colleges in incorporating sustainable practices into the fabric of the college. ... this college is an exemplary model of sustainable operational practices."

"...resiliency and spirit of innovation ... are the hallmarks of Santa Monica College."