JCSU probation extended to 2026-27 academic year

JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY

Johnson C. Smith remains on probation for good cause until 2027 after the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges ruled the school hasn't satisfied its standards for financial responsibility and sustainability.

Johnson C. Smith University is on probation for another year as its accreditor measures the school’s progress in resolving fiscal responsibility concerns.

Atlanta-based Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges opted to maintain the sanction for good cause although it found no additional issues. JCSU was placed on probation last year after the board reviewed a monitoring report originally initiated in 2023.

Two years is the maximum amount allowed for such reviews before the agency declares a school in full compliance or impose stiffer penalties, including loss of membership and accreditation.

JCSU remains accredited, meaning students are eligible for federal financial aid.

“We welcome this journey of continuous improvement,” President Valerie Kinloch said in a statement. “Over the past year, our faculty, staff, students, alumni, trustees, and supporters have worked together to strengthen the University while remaining focused on student success and institutional excellence. We are proud of the progress we have made and are committed to building upon that momentum.”

SACSCOC voted to continue probation at its June meeting after officials visited the campus in May. JCSU leaders presented documentation of progress in the 2025-26 academic year, including new policies and procedures, reporting processes, and accountability measures. They also cited a clean financial audit, improved internal controls and fundraising initiatives. 

JCSU will be required to submit a fourth monitoring report after SACSCOC determined the school was not yet in compliance with standards for fiscal responsibility, financial controls, sponsored research/external funds along with federal and state responsibilities. 

Probation for good cause is the accrediting agency’s most severe sanction short of loss of membership. 

As part of its initiative to emerge from probation, JCSU leadership is focused on training faculty and staff on new policies and procedures through a series of workshops to document compliance with SACSCOC rules.

The next accrediting review is in June 2027.

“This work is about creating lasting change,” Kinloch said. “Our goal is to continue moving forward, strengthening our systems and ensuring that the improvements we make today position Johnson C. Smith University for success for years to come. We are addressing challenges that developed over many years, and while the work is difficult, it is necessary. The benefits will be felt by our institution long into the future.”

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