Barber-Scotia College Seeks Accreditation
By Dr. Royal B. Fisher, DPR
Since Dr. Melvin Isadore Douglass, 24th President of Barber Scotia College, arrived 14 months ago, he has displayed a dynamic personality that not only helps to lead the iconic Barber-Scotia College effectively, but does so with a certain amount of panache, charisma and vigor that energizes the alumni, faculty, staff, students and community at large.
Recently, Dr. Douglass has excited stakeholders with an announcement that Barber-Scotia College is pursuing accreditation. He stated: "The Trustees and I agreed to seek accreditation from The Association for Biblical Higher Education (ABHE), which is recognized by the United States Department of Education and Council for Higher Education Accreditation." To help accomplish this goal, Dr. Douglass sought the assistance of Dr. Larry J. McKinney.
Dr. McKinney is a higher education consultant specializing in institutional effectiveness, strategy, and change for Christian colleges and universities. He helps institutions develop a positive and sustainable future. Dr. McKinney is the retired President of Simpson University in Redding, CA, having spent 40 years in Christ-centered higher education administration.
His other leadership roles have included Executive Director of the ABHE in Orlando, FL. He has also been involved in leadership capacities with various higher education organizations and has chaired or served on evaluation teams with the Association for Biblical Higher Education, the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Dr. McKinney is a part-time Commission Staff Representative for the Commission on Accreditation of the ABHE. He works directly with developing institutions who need support in progressing through the ABHE accreditation process that includes applicant status, candidate status, and initial accreditation
Dr. McKinney holds an Ed.D. in Higher Education Administration from Temple University, an M.A. in Educational Ministries from Wheaton College, and a B.S. in Bible from Cairn University.
