MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – MARCH 4, 2022
Bacone College is excited to announce its removal from accreditation probation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
The college’s near closure in 2018 led to many challenges the college had to address, and consequently, it was placed on probation in February of 2019. The HLC recognized the college’s incredible progress and returned it to full accreditation status effective February 25, 2022.
“This was a nonstop Herculean effort of a succession of administrators and faculty through the last two years,” said interim President Dr. Nicky Michael. “We want to acknowledge everyone’s prayers and efforts to assist us as we navigated through obstacles, challenges, and denials.”
Bacone College continues to work toward becoming a public college as part of its plan for success.
“We continue to appeal to the Bureau of Indian Education for recognition of tribal college status,” Michael said. “Regardless, we are well on our way to a more healthy, healing, and educated future.”
United Keetoowah Band Chief Joe Bunch, chair of the Bacone College Board of Trustees, said he is thankful to those who have worked diligently toward this accomplishment.
“We are blessed to have an enormous obstacle removed from our path in becoming a tribal college,” Bunch said. “On behalf of the Bacone College Board of Trustees, I thank the faculty, staff and students for their involvement in making this moment come true. Go, Bacone Warriors!”