Despite Controversy, Group Urges Recognition for Accrediting Agency

By Mark Pitsch

WASHINGTON--A federal advisory panel last week called for continued federal recognition for the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools' Commission on Higher Education, despite that regional accrediting agency's controversial policy of requiring colleges and universities to meet a cultural-diversity standard.

The National Advisory Committee on Institutional Accreditation and Eligibility recommended that the recognition be extended only for four years, rather than the usual five, however, and imposed additional reporting requirements on the commission.

Under the recommendation, the Education Department would require Middle States to submit annual reports on any actions taken against postsecondary institutions because...