By Barbara Gellman-Danley, HLC President 

“When you are inspired by some great purpose, some extraordinary project, all your thoughts break their bonds, your mind transcends limitations, your consciousness expands in every direction, and you find yourself in a new, great and wonderful world. Dormant forces, faculties, and talents become alive, and you discover yourself to be a greater person by far than you ever dreamed yourself to be.”      

– Patanjali (a revered ancient Indian sage) 

I had the privilege of being a commencement speaker at the University of Central Florida and used this quote. It was a wonderful experience to learn more about the institution and celebrate such a significant time in the students’ lives. This is the time of year, HLC’s member colleges and universities see the moment as a strong validation of the work you do for all learners. The administrator sitting next me asked, “Is there a better view than the one we have right now?” Absolutely not, we saw all the graduates who worked very hard to earn their degrees, with family and friends attending to support them. Watching the joy in their faces as they crossed the stage is a great honor. For each of your own institutions, HLC would like to extend our congratulations to both you and the students served at this pivotal point in their lives. I always see commencement as reaching the top of a very high mountain, for which our efforts in higher education are rewarded.

As we enter the summer season, the work continues at the Higher Learning Commission. We are keeping you posted about the Negotiated Rulemaking underway as well as other federal actions. It is important that institutional leaders weigh in when there are opportunities to impact regulations and legislation related to higher education and accreditation. HLC is committed to advocating on your behalf when needed or requested.

This is also the time of year when many people take vacations. I encourage you not to leave those vacation days in the “unused because I was too busy” bank. Everyone deserves the time off to refresh and enjoy time away, to be with loved ones, friends, and quiet moments alone. Work will be waiting, no need to ignore your own work-life balance priorities. Have a great summer, be proud of the work completed this academic year, and enjoy the season!