Association of Reformed Institutions of Higher Education ARIHE

Association of Reformed Institutions of Higher Education ARIHE

Overview

Overview

The Association of Reformed Institutions of Higher Education (ARIHE) is a non-profit organization representing colleges and universities affiliated with the Reformed Church in America. Founded in 1984, ARIHE serves as a platform for institutions committed to integrating Reformed Christian principles into higher education. The organization is recognized as the North American affiliate of the International Association for the Promotion of Christian Higher Education (IAPCHE), according to uniRank research.

History and Legal Framework

Established in 1984, ARIHE was created to provide a cohesive network for Reformed Christian higher education institutions in North America. The organization's founding was influenced by the desire to promote academic excellence grounded in Reformed theological perspectives. Over the years, ARIHE has played a pivotal role in advocating for the recognition and accreditation of Christian higher education institutions, contributing to the legal and institutional frameworks that support such institutions in Canada.

Mission, Vision and Objectives

ARIHE's mission is to promote the integration of Reformed Christian values into higher education, fostering institutions that are academically rigorous and spiritually committed. The organization's vision encompasses the development of a network of institutions that uphold the principles of Reformed theology while providing quality education. ARIHE's objectives include:

  • Facilitating collaboration among member institutions.
  • Advocating for the recognition of Christian higher education.
  • Supporting the professional development of faculty and administrators.
  • Encouraging the integration of faith and learning.

Through these objectives, ARIHE aims to enhance the role of faith-based institutions in the broader higher education landscape.

Governance, Structure and Independence

ARIHE operates as a member-driven organization, with governance structures that include a board of directors elected from member institutions. The organization's structure allows for active participation from its members, ensuring that decisions reflect the collective interests and values of the community. ARIHE maintains independence in its operations, guided by its mission to support Reformed Christian higher education.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation

While ARIHE itself does not serve as an accrediting body, it plays a significant role in supporting the accreditation processes for its member institutions. Many of these institutions seek accreditation from recognized agencies such as the Association of Reformed Theological Seminaries (ARTS), which is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). ARIHE provides resources and guidance to its members to navigate the accreditation process, ensuring that they meet the academic and institutional standards required for recognition.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

ARIHE's affiliation with the International Association for the Promotion of Christian Higher Education (IAPCHE) positions it within a global network of Christian higher education institutions. This affiliation facilitates international collaboration, allowing member institutions to engage in cross-cultural exchanges, joint research initiatives and shared educational resources. Through these partnerships, ARIHE enhances the global presence and influence of Reformed Christian higher education.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

ARIHE continues to influence the landscape of higher education by advocating for the inclusion of faith-based perspectives in academic discourse. The organization's efforts contribute to the diversification of higher education, providing students with opportunities to engage in learning environments that integrate academic rigor with spiritual development. Looking forward, ARIHE aims to expand its network, enhance its support services for member institutions and increase its advocacy efforts to ensure the continued recognition and support of Reformed Christian higher education.

Summary

The Association of Reformed Institutions of Higher Education (ARIHE) plays a crucial role in supporting and promoting Reformed Christian higher education in North America. Through its network of member institutions, ARIHE fosters collaboration, supports accreditation processes and advocates for the integration of faith and learning. Its affiliation with international organizations further strengthens its impact, positioning ARIHE as a significant entity in the landscape of higher education.

FAQs

  • What is ARIHE? ARIHE is a non-profit organization representing colleges and universities affiliated with the Reformed Church in America, focusing on integrating Reformed Christian values into higher education.
  • When was ARIHE founded? ARIHE was founded in 1984 to provide a network for Reformed Christian higher education institutions in North America.
  • Does ARIHE accredit institutions? No, ARIHE does not serve as an accrediting body but supports its members in obtaining accreditation from recognized agencies.
  • Is ARIHE affiliated with any international organizations? Yes, ARIHE is the North American affiliate of the International Association for the Promotion of Christian Higher Education (IAPCHE).
  • How does ARIHE support its member institutions? ARIHE provides resources, facilitates collaboration and advocates for the recognition and support of Reformed Christian higher education.

Organization Profile


Organization Name




Acronym

ARIHE


Year of Establishment

1/01/1996


Control Type

Private


Entity Type

Non-Profit


Geo Focus and Coverage

National


Recognized by

n.a.


Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.


Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.


Contact Details

Address

c/o Redeemer University College, 777 Garner Road E
Ancaster
L9K 1J4 Ontario Canada


Phone

+1 (905) 627 4540

Fax

+1 (905) 628 4107

Location Map



Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

Member Institutions

ARIHE comprises a selection of colleges and universities connected with Reformed denominations or traditions. Member institutions include:

  • Calvin University (Grand Rapids, Michigan), affiliated with the Christian Reformed Church in North America
  • Covenant College (Lookout Mountain, Georgia), related to the Presbyterian Church in America
  • Dordt University (Sioux Center, Iowa), associated with the Christian Reformed Church yet self‑governing
  • Geneva College (Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania), affiliated with the Reformed Presbyterian Church in North America
  • Institute for Christian Studies (Toronto, Ontario), an independent Reformed graduate school in philosophy
  • New Saint Andrews College (Moscow, Idaho), a classical Christian liberal arts college aligned with CREC
  • Providence Christian College (Ontario, California), confessionally Presbyterian and Reformed
  • Redeemer University (Ancaster, Ontario), governed by a diversity of Reformed denominational stakeholders
  • The King’s University (Edmonton, Alberta), Reformed and Presbyterian governance


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