Dr. Jesse W. Rogers, president of Midwestern State University, was recently elected a

His term began in January and concludes December 2006. The Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools serves as the recognized regional accrediting body for those institutions of higher education that award degrees. The Commission's main purpose is the improvement of educational quality throughout the region and the assurance to the public that its member institutions meet established standards. As a Commissioner, Rogers is one of a 77-member body elected to represent approximately 780 institutions which are members of the Commission on Colleges. In this capacity he will be responsible for determining Commission policy, reviewing and making decisions regarding the accreditation of institutions, and conducting the initial review for any proposed dues changes or modifications to the criteria of the Commission. In addition, one of the most important responsibilities of Commission members is to serve as a liaison between the membership and Commission staff - assisting the Commission office in disseminating information to the membership. Rogers will also be assigned to serve on one of five Committees on Compliance and Reports. It is the responsibility of these committees to evaluate a variety of institutional reports and to formulate recommendations regarding institutions and their status with the Commission on Colleges. 2/18/04