By Barbara Gellman-Danley, HLC President 

Happy holidays!  

As we wrap up the calendar year, there is much to recall about the “Year in Review.” We read daily about the outstanding work done at HLC’s member institutions. This includes extremely impressive grants and fundraising to enhance the overall student experience, advance research, and more. While some leaders have retired or moved to other positions, many impressive new individuals are entering the C-Suites of colleges and universities. As to innovation, we can see many of you are doing amazing work with Artificial Intelligence, student success services and new programs, among other examples. 

For HLC, it has also been quite a year. We implemented the Revised Criteria for Accreditation in September, launched the Credential Lab’s Endorsement and welcomed new members.  The American system of higher education remains the best in the world, and it is an honor to learn so much about how our members are contributing to that reputation.  

Of course, there are also difficult moments. We all know there are ongoing conversations about the return on investment of higher education. Since January, there have been many Executive Orders focused on our industry, difficult conversations regarding protests and freedom of speech, as well as the changing role of college leadership. We heard from you that advocacy on your behalf is important, which we have translated to a laser focus by HLC on any legislation, Negotiated Rulemaking and related pathways to influence higher education. We are also working very closely with our states, old and new.  

My own travel of late has included serving on boards, visiting states, speaking at conferences, managing press interviews and in general, providing thought leadership on your behalf. When I speak with state and federal elected officials, I always get member context, historical information and input. There are some good things going on to encourage growth in workforce programs and improve student success. There are also challenges that seem insurmountable at times. You might find the following report useful as it relates to the growing landscape of credentials: Counting Credentials 2025 Report 

This year, the HLC Board spent considerable time on future-focused work and the next strategic plan. Board members are looking at long-term strategies for our work in accreditation and serving members in these dynamic times. 

This is the time of year I work on the annual trends, which are presented each spring at HLC’s Annual Conference. This will be the third year I address some of the stress we all are feeling, CEOs, faculty, staff and trustees. Other trends will continue related to the growth of AI, new credentials, political influences, the value of higher education, and others. 

Let’s look to the new year as an opportunity to continue our good work in higher education, share the successes, and mitigate any challenges. Each of you deserves to enjoy your holiday break and refresh. When the new year begins, know that HLC stands ready to be your partner in meeting the moments. 

Maya Angelou said it well when writing, “Each person deserves a day away in which no problems are confronted, no solutions searched for. Each of us needs to withdraw from the cares which will not withdraw from us.”