ACBSP reaffirms accreditation to SE John Massey School of Business

Press Release Date: 07-27-2010

DURANT, Okla. – The Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) has reaffirmed the accreditation of Southeastern Oklahoma State University for its John Massey School of Business.

The announcement was made June 27 at the ACBSP Annual Conference in Los Angeles. This represents the 20th annual presentation to institutions being accredited since the founding of the ACBSP 22 years ago. Southeastern was one of 21 institutions receiving the award.

"Dean (Buddy) Gaster and the entire faculty and staff of the John Massey School of Business are to be congratulated on this achievement,” said Southeastern president Larry Minks. “They continue to maintain the highest standards and that is reflected in the quality programs that are offered to our students. The accreditation process is an important tool in ensuring excellence in the classroom."

Douglas G. Viehland, executive director of the ACBSP, spoke of the accomplishment of the member institutions: "These institutions have shown their commitment to teaching excellence by their participation in the accreditation process and their achievement of accreditation. ACBSP is proud to assist these schools and programs in their commitment to quality business programs. We recognize their educational practices that contribute to the continuous improvement of business education."

For institutions that achieve accreditation for their business schools and programs, this attainment certifies that the teaching and learning processes within that institution meet the rigorous educational standards established by the ACBSP. The ratification of accreditation by ACBSP covers a 10-year period at which time an institution must reaffirm its quality by preparing a self-study and having another site visit. During the accreditation period, business programs are required to maintain the high quality standards of ACSBP.

ACBSP’s mission is to establish, promote, and recognize educational practices that contribute to the continuous quality improvement of business education programs, teaching of business courses, and student learning outcomes in colleges and universities throughout the United States and abroad. ACBSP was established in 1988 and is the only business accrediting organization for both two and four-year institutions. ACBSP has 729 member institutions.

Southeastern and The John Massey School of Business also hold accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business – International.

Southeastern is one of only six business programs world-wide accredited by both organizations.

Dr. Theresa Hrncir, who represented The John Massey School of Business at the ceremony, is the current treasurer for the southwestern region of ACBSP, is a former regional president, and a former secretary to the national board for ACBSP. Dean Buddy Gaster is a long-time member and was part of the initial organization of ACBSP more than 20 years ago.