SALISBURY, N.C. – Rowan-Cabarrus Community College has earned reaffirmation of accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) through 2036, representing one of the most significant institutional milestones a college can achieve and providing public assurance that Rowan-Cabarrus continues to meet rigorous standards for academic quality, governance, financial stability, student achievement and institutional effectiveness.
Finalized by SACSCOC in June 2026, the reaffirmation recognizes the dedicated work of faculty, staff, administrators and trustees across the College. Over an 18-month period, faculty and staff examined academic programs, student services, operations, policies and outcomes through the development of a Compliance Certification and Focused Report. The process required extensive data collection, documentation and analysis to demonstrate how Rowan-Cabarrus fulfills its mission and supports student success.
Accreditation by SACSCOC extends to all Rowan-Cabarrus locations and educational offerings, including distance education. Reaffirmation supports students’ continued access to federal financial aid, helps protect the transferability of academic credits and provides assurance that the College meets established standards for higher education.
“Receiving reaffirmation through 2036 is a significant accomplishment for Rowan-Cabarrus,” said President Dr. Carol S. Spalding. “This outcome demonstrates the dedication of our employees, the strength of our academic programs and support services, and our shared commitment to helping students achieve their goals. I am grateful to everyone across the College who contributed to this effort and helped demonstrate the impact Rowan-Cabarrus has on our students and communities.”
As part of the review process, a SACSCOC on-site review team visited Rowan-Cabarrus in September 2025. During the visit, reviewers met with members of the Board of Trustees, students, faculty and staff across multiple campus locations to better understand the College’s operations and student experience. Committee feedback highlighted the relationships students have with faculty and staff and the support they receive throughout their time at Rowan-Cabarrus.
“The Board of Trustees is pleased to see Rowan-Cabarrus earn reaffirmation of accreditation following such a thorough review,” said Rowan-Cabarrus Board of Trustees Chair Cynthia Mynatt. “This achievement shows the College’s commitment to accountability, responsible stewardship and continuous improvement. Most importantly, it reinforces the confidence that students, employers and community members place in Rowan-Cabarrus.”
The review examined the College’s academic programs, student support systems, operations, planning and institutional effectiveness.
“Reaffirmation of accreditation demonstrates the quality of the educational experience our students receive at Rowan-Cabarrus,” said Vice President of Academic Programs Dr. Michael Quillen. “Our faculty and staff work every day to ensure students are prepared for successful careers, continued education and lifelong learning. This outcome affirms their dedication and the strength of our academic programs.”
SACSCOC requires accredited institutions to undergo a reaffirmation review every 10 years. The process includes comprehensive self-assessment, peer review and continuous quality improvement activities designed to ensure institutions fulfill their missions and serve students effectively. Reaffirmation through 2036 provides further assurance that Rowan-Cabarrus is well-positioned to build on its record of responsible stewardship, expand educational opportunity and meet the future workforce needs of Rowan and Cabarrus counties.