Cheyney University again on accreditation probation after comeback attempt

Higher Ed Dive

Jeremy Bauer-Wolf

December 4, 2023

Cheyney University of Pennsylvania is back on accreditation probation as of last month, reigniting yearslong concerns about the nation’s oldest historically Black college and its finances.

The public rural HBCU appeared to mount a comeback, having its accreditation renewed in 2019. The milestone came after the university’s precarious financial position had jeopardized its status for years. The Middle States Commission on Higher Education had put it on probation in 2015 and two years later asked the institution to “show cause” why it should not have its accreditation revoked — the final step before pulling it.

Middle States said last month that it’s once again not convinced Cheyney is following accreditation rules.

The accreditor does not publicly disclose many details of potential violations of its standards. But it said Cheyney may be deficient in areas including “ethics and integrity” and “design and delivery of the student learning experience.” It wants Cheyney to show it’s complying with laws, regulations and Middle States policies, as well as meeting requirements related to financial planning.

The university remains fully accredited while on probation, Kevin Hensil, spokesperson for the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, noted in an email Friday. Cheyney is a part of the PASSHE network.

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