Every journey begins with a sense of direction.

As Prairie Stars, we are guided by a shared sense of purpose and a commitment to continuous improvement. UIS is preparing for its next Higher Learning Commission (HLC) comprehensive evaluation, a critical step in reaffirming our institutional accreditation through 2028 and beyond. Through this process, we have an opportunity to reflect on where we've been, demonstrate the progress we've made and intentionally chart the course ahead.

Over the next 15 months, members of the UIS community will work together to develop an Assurance Argument demonstrating how UIS meets HLC’s standards in four key areas: mission, integrity, student success and institutional sustainability. The process includes a university-wide self-study, submission of the Assurance Argument in October 2027 and a peer-review site visit on Nov. 8-9, 2027.

The theme for this journey, Charting Our Course: Navigating by the Stars, reflects how we approach both accreditation and our future as a university. Our mission and values provide direction. Our accomplishments serve as evidence of our progress. Together, the experiences, achievements and contributions of our students, faculty and staff form the constellation that tells the UIS story and guides our next chapter.

Accreditation is vital to maintaining access to federal financial aid, preserving the value of a UIS degree, supporting credit transferability and strengthening our reputation as a premier public institution. The success of this effort depends on our entire campus community.

Throughout the process, faculty, staff and students will have opportunities to provide feedback, share their experiences and contribute to the evidence that demonstrates our excellence. As we move through each phase of the journey, we will celebrate our accomplishments, identify opportunities for growth and showcase the impact of UIS.

Our Path. Our Purpose. Our Proof. Together, we're charting what's next for UIS.