Learn how Trinity prepares for accreditation and continuous improvement
What is the Middle States Self-Study Process?
Overview
The Middle States Self-Study process is Trinity Washington University’s systematic review to ensure we fulfill our mission, measure outcomes, reflect on effectiveness, and plan improvements that support student success.
We evaluate how well we:
- Fulfill our mission
- Deliver academic excellence
- Support student learning
- Use data for decision-making
- Improve institutional effectiveness
This process is required for accreditation by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) — the regional accrediting body that affirms the quality and integrity of colleges and universities.
Self-Study Process at a Glance
Over the past two (2) years, Trinity has engaged in a process of gathering data and documentation about our programs, operations and outcomes. Working groups (see below) examined evidence and reflected on our strengths, challenges and goals in relationship to the Middle States Standards. We have engaged the campus community in conversation where faculty, staff, students, and stakeholders gave their feedback through forums, surveys, and discussions.
In March of this year (3/22-26) a Middle States visiting team will be on campus to meet with the Trinity community and discuss our Self-Study.
The findings of the visiting team will be used to improve our academic quality and institutional effectiveness.
Why This Matters
This important process is an opportunity for us to strengthen who we are as an institution through a comprehensive evaluation. This reaffirmation is done every eight (8) years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)?
Middle States is an independent organization that accredits colleges in the Mid-Atlantic region. Accreditation affirms quality and integrity over time.
Why does Trinity do a Self-Study?
To document how we fulfill our mission, measure outcomes, reflect on effectiveness, and plan improvements.
How often does this occur?
Typically every 8 years, with periodic reports between cycles.
Where can I find the Self-Study report?
Right here, and at the top of this page.
Why should we care about accreditation?
Accreditation ensures educational quality, student opportunity, institutional credibility, and long-term sustainability. Accreditation protects the value of a Trinity degree; ensuring access to Federal Financial Aid; demonstrating accountability and transparency; encourages improvement; affirms our mission and upholds the public trust.
Timeline of the Process
- Fall 2023: Participation in the MSCHE Self-Study Institute
- Fall 2023: Selection of Self-Study Co-Chairs, Steering Committee and Working Groups
- Spring 2024: Submission of the Self-Study Design Draft
- Fall 2024: Approval of the Self-Study Design
- Spring 2025: Data Collection, Development of Initial Drafts of the Self-Study Report
- Fall 2025: Completion and Finalization of the Self-Study Report
- January 2026: Submission to MSCHE
- March 22-25, 2026: MSCHE Site Team Visit
- Fall 2026: Final Decision by the Full Commission
Steering Committee Working Groups
Middle States Self-Study Steering Committee
- Brigid Noonan, Dean of the School of Nursing and Health Professions, Co-Chair
- Cynthia DeBoy, Professor of Biology, Co-Chair
- Karen Gerlach, Vice President for Student Affairs (Standard 4)
- Grant Gonzalez, Chief Financial Officer (Standard 6)
- Sita Ramamurti, Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences (Standard 3)
- Christine Carrino Gorowara, Dean of the School of Education (Standard 5)
- Thomas Mostowy, Dean of Professional + Graduate Studies (Standard 7)
- Carrie O’Reilly, Associate Dean and Nursing Program Director (Standard 5)
- Lisa Simmons, Assistant Professor and MOT Program Director (Standard 3)
- Rewa Burnham, Associate Professor of English (Standard 1)
- Steven Gable, Associate Professor of Philosophy (Standard 2)
- Trisha Smith, University Librarian (Standard 6)
- Carlota Ocampo, Provost, Accreditation Liaison Officer
Standard I: Mission and Goals
- Rewa Burnham, Associate Professor of English (CAS), Chair
- Stephen Thorne, Distinguished Professor of Education
- Michelle Bowie, Dean of Student Services
- Martha Molina, Director of Financial Aid
Standard II: Ethics and Integrity
- Steven Gable, Associate Professor of Philosophy (CAS), Chair
- Timothy Russell, Associate Vice President for Creative Services
- Michelle Burke, Associate Director of Human Resources
- Sherron Washington, Instructor in Communication (CAS)
- Nicole Rouse, Assistant Director of the Center for Student Success
Standard III: Design and Delivery of the Student Learning Experience
- Sita Ramamurti, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Chair
- Hans Momplaisir, Associate Dean and Associate Professor of Sociology (CAS, ECA)
- Allen Pietrobon, Associate Professor of Global Affairs (CAS)
- Anette Casiano-Negroni, Luce Professor of Chemistry (CAS)
- Lisa Simmons, Assistant Professor and MOT Program Director (NHP)
- Christine Lynch, Assistant Dean for Programs at THEARC (SPS)
- Michael Rowe, Early Childhood Education Program Director (EDU)
- Javier Lopez, Assistant Professor and MSA Program Director (BGS)
Standard IV: Support of the Student Experience
- Karen Gerlach, Vice President for Student Affairs, Chair
- Kimberly LaBoone, Director of Academic Support Services
- Soulyka Agana-Woodbine, Director of Career Services
- Sarah Young, Director of Disabilities Services
- Kimberly Monroe, Associate Professor of Global Affairs (CAS)
- Deneen Robin, Director of Clinical Training, Graduate Counseling Program (NHP)
- Annie Cosimano, LCSW, Health and Wellness Center, Social Worker
Standard V: Educational Effectiveness Assessment
- Christine Gorowara, Dean of the School of Education, Chair
- Carrie O’Reilly, Director of the Nursing Program, Associate Professor of the Practice (NHP)
- Nicole Betschman, Director of the MPH Program, Associate Professor of the Practice (NHP)
- Jennifer Lee, Assistant Professor of Education (EDU)
- Sonya Cole, Assistant Professor of Business (PGS)
- Wairimu Mwangi, Assistant Professor of Sociology
- Kaitlin Wellens, Luce Professor of Biology
Standard VI: Planning, Resources, and Institutional Improvement
- Grant Gonzalez, Chief Finance Officer, Chair
- Michael Burback, Vice President and Chief Information Officer
- Cathy Geier, Vice President for Enrollment Services
- Trisha Smith, University Librarian
Standard VII: Governance, Leadership, and Administration
- Dean Thomas Mostowy, Dean of the School of Professional and Graduate Studies (PGS), Chair
- Vernon Scott, Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice (CAS)
- Joshua Wright, Associate Professor of Global Affairs (CAS)
- Rashida Daye-Campbell, Director of the OTA-B Program and Assistant Professor (NHP)
- Patrick Kellogg, Vice President for Development and Alumnae Affairs
