State Council of Higher Education for Virginia SCHEV

Overview

The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) serves as the Commonwealth's coordinating agency for higher education. Established in 1956 by the Governor and General Assembly, SCHEV's mission is to advocate for and promote the development and operation of an educationally and economically sound, vigorous, progressive, and coordinated system of higher education in Virginia. The Council leads state-level strategic planning and policy development, ensuring that higher education aligns with the Commonwealth's goals and serves the public interest.

History and Legal Framework

SCHEV was created through legislation enacted by the Virginia General Assembly in 1956. Its authority and responsibilities are codified in the Code of Virginia, specifically under § 23.1-200. The Council's establishment aimed to centralize and streamline higher education governance, providing a unified body to oversee and coordinate the state's public and private institutions of higher learning. Over the years, SCHEV's role has expanded to include strategic planning, policy development, and advocacy for higher education in Virginia.

Mission, Vision, and Objectives in Higher Education

SCHEV's mission, as outlined in the Code of Virginia, is to:

• Advocate for and promote the development and operation of an educationally and economically sound, vigorous, progressive, and coordinated system of higher education in the Commonwealth.
• Lead state-level strategic planning and policy development and implementation based on research and analysis.
• Facilitate collaboration among institutions of higher education to enhance quality, advance educational excellence, and create operational efficiencies.
• Recommend higher education policies and funding to the Governor and General Assembly that support these objectives.

Through these objectives, SCHEV aims to ensure that Virginia's higher education system meets the evolving needs of students, employers, and the broader community.

Governance, Structure, and Independence

SCHEV operates as an independent agency within the executive branch of the Virginia state government. The Council is composed of 15 members appointed by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the General Assembly. These members serve four-year terms and are responsible for setting policy and providing oversight for the agency's activities. The Executive Director, appointed by the Council, manages the day-to-day operations of SCHEV and implements its policies and programs.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation in Higher Education

While SCHEV does not directly accredit institutions, it plays a significant role in supporting the accreditation process. The Council oversees the certification of colleges, universities, and career schools in Virginia, ensuring they meet state standards for operation. SCHEV also administers a competency assessment program in collaboration with institutions, gathering data and issuing reports on the effectiveness of the Commonwealth's educational institutions. These assessments help demonstrate compliance with accreditation standards and inform continuous improvement efforts.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

SCHEV actively engages in international cooperation to enhance the global competitiveness of Virginia's higher education institutions. The Council facilitates partnerships with international organizations and participates in networks that promote best practices in higher education. Through these collaborations, SCHEV supports initiatives that broaden educational opportunities for students and faculty, fostering a more interconnected academic community.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

SCHEV's strategic initiatives continue to shape the future of higher education in Virginia. The Council's statewide strategic plan, "Pathways to Opportunity: The Virginia Plan for Higher Education," outlines goals to increase educational attainment, improve affordability, and promote equity across the state's institutions. By focusing on these areas, SCHEV aims to address the evolving needs of students and the workforce, ensuring that Virginia's higher education system remains responsive and effective in the coming years.

Summary

The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia plays a pivotal role in coordinating and enhancing the state's higher education system. Through its advocacy, strategic planning, and policy development, SCHEV works to ensure that Virginia's colleges and universities provide high-quality, accessible, and affordable education. The Council's efforts contribute to the Commonwealth's economic development and the well-being of its citizens by fostering an educated and skilled workforce.

FAQs

• What is the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia?

  SCHEV is the Commonwealth's coordinating agency for higher education, responsible for overseeing and enhancing the state's higher education system.

• When was SCHEV established?

  SCHEV was established in 1956 by the Governor and General Assembly of Virginia.

• What is SCHEV's mission?

  SCHEV's mission is to advocate for and promote the development of an educationally and economically sound, vigorous, progressive, and coordinated system of higher education in Virginia.

• How does SCHEV support accreditation?

  SCHEV oversees the certification of colleges, universities, and career schools in Virginia and administers a competency assessment program to support accreditation efforts.

• Does SCHEV engage in international cooperation?

  Yes, SCHEV actively engages in international cooperation to enhance the global competitiveness of Virginia's higher education institutions.

Organization Name

State Council of Higher Education for Virginia

Acronym

SCHEV

Year of Establishment

1/01/1956

Control Type

Public

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

Local or Regional

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

n.a.

Address

101 N. 14TH Street, James Monroe Building
Richmond
23219 Virginia United States

Phone

+1 (804) 225 2600

Fax

+1 (804) 225 2604

n.a.

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Wikipedia Article

State Council of Higher Education for Virginia's Wikipedia article

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