Wittenberg is now "Accredited on Probation"

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) has changed Wittenberg University's status from "Accredited" to "Accredited on Probation."

According to the HLC, "Probation is a public sanction that allows the institution a period of time to resolve the areas of concern. The initial period for Probation is up to two years. While on Probation, the institution remains accredited."

An official Public Disclosure Notice was published on November 6. Wittenberg University's Office of the President sent out a campus-wide email addressing the change on November 12. 

In the email, Wittenberg President Christian Brady explained that the new status doesn't directly impact students and their journey. "The excellent education and exceptional programs we offer will continue," he said. He affirmed that the change is a reflection of "where we have been, not where we are going."

In a one-on-one interview, Brady elaborated on the events that led up to this point.

Last February, the HLC labeled Wittenberg as under "financial distress." Then, following an October visit from the HLC, Wittenberg received a report from the HLC President Barbara Gellman-Danley recommending Witt be placed on probation, according to Brady.

Wittenberg attempted to leverage additional funds that would help bridge the projected deficit for this year. In an audit, Wittenberg had discovered $9.3 million unused from a decision made by the its board of directors. The board had changed previously restricted endowment funds to an unrestricted status so the money could be used where it was needed most. 

On top of these funds, Wittenberg has also received extra financial support from alumni. During the last annual "Commit to Witt" fundraiser, a record amount of over $1 million was raised. Brady also mentioned that as recently as this past weekend, "a donor has committed another $2 million before the end of the calendar year."

Despite these efforts, the HLC went through with the status change. However, Brady isn't surprised or rattled by the circumstances. "I took the job knowing we had this work to do."

Wittenberg has until 2027 to address the financial issues before the HLC returns to reevaluate Wittenberg's status. Brady explained that Wittenberg was due for its 10-year accreditation review in 2027 anyways.

"I think for folks who've been here in the trenches the last couple years, faculty and staff in particular, it feels a little discouraging because it feels like it wasn't recognizing the good work that we've done in the last six months in particular," said Brady. He continued, "This is still work we need to do, and if anything, it provides additional focus and attention."

Brady acknowledged some students may not choose to attend Wittenberg next fall because of these events, but he also affirmed that Wittenberg is currently ahead on enrollment. 

As of this month, Wittenberg has surpassed 2,000 applications for next school year which is, "21 percent ahead, year to date, of the five years prior to last year" according to Brady.

Some other enrollment concerns pertain to the large percentage of incoming student athletes and the university's retention rate. These worries came from recent years in which Wittenberg football recruited too many students to realistically play on the team. Many students left as a result. Brady referred to this as "an anomaly" and stated, "I think as we get our footing underneath us, that will be less and less of a concern."

Brady explained that, "In general, athletes retain at a higher rate than non-athletes." This statement is supported by recent NCAA reports.

This semester, over 80 percent of incoming students were recruited for athletics. However, Brady said that current coaches have been working to recruit the appropriate amount of players. "We're working hard to make sure that we have a diverse student body coming in."

To attract a broader range of students, Brady cited his efforts towards strengthening the honors program as well. He also expressed excitement about the return of programs such as the school newspaper, radio station, and mock trial team. To him, athletics and academic programs are both key factors in creating a sense of community and belonging on campus.

As for academics, Brady once again mentioned his commitment to academic excellence and his core belief that the "liberal arts is not about what you study, but how you study." He is still working with faculty on a strategic plan to develop a vision for Wittenberg's academic goals and restructuring.

"I think the way to success, not just survival, but success, is not pivoting and becoming a professional school or this or that, but is doing what we do at the very highest level," stated Brady. "Excellence. That's what our goal is."