WASC has lifted its show-cause order and placed NMC on probation.
Orsini, in an email, said he believes the recommendations are achievable, particularly the one that directs the college to act autonomously and to be free from political interference.
“It is achievable because NMC will continue to remind and educate our political leaders that NMC’s accreditation is every one’s business,” he said.
“Continued and constant reminders in educating our political leaders are the key to protecting NMC’s self-governance and NMC’s accreditation,” he added
It is important that the community has a complete understanding of what is at stake, he said.
WASC stipulated 10 recommendations which include training for the NMC board of regent.
Orsini said training has been ongoing even before he became member of the board.
“All regents are required not only to go through proper training, but most importantly, to be awarded certification and to be recognized, to sit as a board member by the Association of Community College Trustees,” he added.
Orsini said in higher education there is always advancement and improvement regarding the various aspects of post-secondary education and all board members as policy makers need such knowledge to assist in making proper policies and decisions that aim to improve institutions like NMC.
“Of the current NMC board members, myself, Frank Rabauliman and Elaine Hocog-Orilla are certified by the ACCT,” he said.
The other regents are former Judge Juan T. Lizama, the board chairman, former Reps. Maria T. Peter and William S. Torres.
Concerning the WASC recommendation on the integration of financial planning, Orsini said the regents and the new president will work together in addressing the college’s reduced funding.
He said they want NMC to eventually become financially independent of local appropriation.
“Our new incoming president, Dr. Sharon Hart, has a wealth of background and experience in addressing and tackling this very issue that the NMC faces today,” Orsini told Variety.
He believes that WASC sees the potentials of NMC to do better.
Orsini at the same time commended NMC interim President Lorraine T. Cabrera, the college management team, faculty, staff and students for their hard work that resulted in the lifting of the show-cause order and an improved accreditation status for the college.
“There’s much to be done from here, but I am confident with the overall NMC community that regaining full affirmation of accreditation is and will be attainable,” he said.
