Cheyney University Fighting To Keep Accreditation
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The nation's oldest historically Black institution of higher learning is facing yet another battle-- this time for its accreditation.
As KYW Community Affairs reporter Cherri Gregg tells us, a regional accrediting body has put Cheyney University on probation.
The 178-year-old Cheyney University has faced declining enrollment, as its number of students dipped to the all-time low of roughly 700 students.
The Middle States Commission on Higher Education concluded the state-owned school lacked evidence that its "institutional resources" met the required standard.
"This accreditation will actually help Cheyney," attorney Michael Coard told KYW Newsradio.
Coard represents Heeding Cheyney's Call, a group that filed a civil rights suit against the Pennsylvania System of Higher Education, alleging decades of discrimination in funding.
"It strengthens the lawsuit we filed," Coard said.
Cheyney will maintain its accreditation, but has two years to meet regional standards.
They must file a report by next September.
P.A.S.S.H.E. and Cheyney issued a statement saying they will work together to address the issues raised.