By BJ Austin, KERA News
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-846086.mp3
Dallas, TX – Paul Quinn College in South Dallas has lost its accreditation - which is required to issue diplomas. KERA's BJ Austin says campus officials plan a vigorous appeal to save the life of the small, historically black college.
At a somewhat somber news conference Paul Quinn College President Michael Sorrell outlined academic and financial progress made during the past two years of "probation".
Sorrell: In a two month period, we have eliminated 800 thousand dollars in debt. In the worst economy since the Great Depression, we have managed to achieve a quarter of a million dollar surplus.
But the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools says it's not good enough, and has revoked Paul Quinn's accreditation. It's required to grant diplomas, and for students to get federal financial aid, or transfer credits.
This development is upsetting to Senior Sherenda Dotsy.
Dotsy: It's unbelievable how we may be paying the price for past problems that had nothing to do with us. You know, I have a 3.8 in education, and I only have six hours left til graduation. And for this to happen, it's like crazy.
President Sorrell says he is confident accreditation will be restored after an August appeals hearing - in time for students' return in September.
Sorrell: People have a tendency to want to write obituaries long before it is time. And it is not time to write Paul Quinn College's obituary.
There are other accreditation organizations to which Paul Quinn could apply if this appeal fails. But Sorrell says he's taking this one optimistic step at a time.