“I’ve been on the commission for five years,” said team leader Mike Rota, the Chancellor of the University of Hawaii’s Community College system. “I’ve seen remarkable changes taking place at the College of the Marshall Islands. I’ve seen the decline and the rebirth of CMI. It’s the only way to describe it.”
The Majuro-based college two years ago nearly lost its U.S. accreditation, and the more than $3 million in annual U.S. funding that goes with it. But last month, WASC returned the two-year college to full accreditation for the first time since 2002. The WASC team visit was the major review all accredited colleges undergo every six years, and determines the length of accreditation the school will obtain up to the six-year maximum.
Speaking to CMI administrators, faculty, staff and students, Rota congratulated the college for its turn-around, commending the school for its “innovations” and focus on “learning needs of the students.”
While confirming that CMI is “meeting standards,” Rota offered the team’s advice in areas where CMI can add to programs already started or improve its work. He urged improved collaboration between the college and the national government, tightening up personnel practices, and codifying some practices into written policies.
“CMI has made great strides,” Rota said. “It’s hasn’t crossed the finish line, but it is up to speed.”
CMI President Wilson Hess said the College of the Marshall Islands will continue to work toward its goal of becoming a model community college in the region. “There is still much to do,” Hess said. “But (the situation) today speaks of the promise for CMI and the country.”
