News Release from Knoxville College Shares Strategic Goals
Knoxville College, one of the oldest and most storied Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States, is proud to announce a partnership with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Higher Education PhD program. This strategic partnership is designed to support Knoxville College in regaining its accreditation to regain its position as one of the premier institutions of higher learning in the state of Tennessee serving Black youth.
Interim President of Knoxville College, Leonard Adams said, “There are so many untapped resources and amazing opportunities between these two institutions that should be explored and collaborated to regain our accreditation, is just the tip of the iceberg for partnership.”
Dr. Kevin James, President of Morris Brown College in Atlanta stated, “HBCUs are needed as they are primarily responsible for creating and educating the Black middle class. Knoxville College is needed now more than ever. The institution that I am honored to lead was in a similar position as Knoxville College. We recently made history being fully restored, including accreditation, and obtaining federal financial aid. I am delighted to aid Knoxville College in its efforts for full restoration as a consultant and advisor for full accreditation. I am honored to have a seat at the table.”
Dr. Robert Kelchen, professor and head of the Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville said, “We are thrilled to partner with Knoxville College to give PhD students an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in higher education leadership and to work with a key partner in this community. Our students are excited to aid Knoxville College in its quest to regain its accreditation so it may continue to be able to serve students for generations to come.”
Knoxville College lost its accreditation in 1997. This partnership will allow University of Tennessee, Knoxville, PhD students engage in a live case study with hands-on opportunities to learn about HBCUs, the accreditation process, governance, finance, academic affairs, and other aspects of business and higher education, while simultaneously earning their degrees and gain valuable experience.
You can learn more about Knoxville College and its mission here: knoxvillecollege.edu