The completion date for Multnomah Bible College's accreditation project has been moved from the spring of 2000 to the fall of 2000. Although Dr. Wayne Strickland, academic dean, expressed mild disappointment at the date change, he said he suspected the process would take longer than originally expected. Survey development and the use of a new software program contributed to the postponement.

Last year, students, staff and faculty filled out five different surveys: the Graduate Student Exit Survey for graduating seminary and college students; the Student Satisfaction Survey for all students; the Student Departmental Outcome Survey, developed by Dr. Steven Patty for quality assessment of the majors; a survey for alumni; and a survey for faculty and staff.

Dr. Strickland said he was encouraged by the positive outcome of the surveys. He said that faculty, staff, trustees, administration and students demonstrate a high level of support for the accreditation process. Dr. Strickland said the Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges has expressed excitement in response to Multnomah's efforts.

Dr. Strickland said the association desires to foster an environment that welcomes more schools like MBC into regional accreditation.

"They are genuine and have bent over backwards to help," he said. The association helped review Multnomah's application for accreditation and made suggestions. The Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges also intends to help the college evaluate its self-survey, the process in which 10 committees evaluate different aspects of the school.

MBC is already accredited through the Accreditation Association of Bible Colleges, and MBS is accredited through the Association of Theological Schools. But, Strickland said, accreditation through Northwest Association of Schools and Colleges will facilitate easier transference of credits from Multnomah to state institutions, aid in raising foundation funds and help keep quality faculty without losing them to institutions that pay higher wages. "Accreditation is exciting," Dr. Strickland said. "It makes us stronger from top to bottom. It helps us teach Bible better."