On Jan. 21, the University Senate of The United Methodist Church voted that Hiwassee continue to be listed as a United Methodist-related college.  This is great news. The listing continues for a period of five years.

In 2009, the Senate had voted to delist Hiwassee because it did not have regional accreditation. We submitted a formal request for reconsideration and our listing as United Methodist-related continued until reconsideration was completed two weeks ago.

We are gratified by the University Senate's recognition of Hiwassee's longstanding mission in the United Methodist tradition.  The release from the Senate stated "The Holston Conference, the resident bishop and the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees continue their strong support for the extraordinary mission for the college . . ." as it serves individuals of the region.

Hiwassee College has been part of the Methodist tradition since its founding.  The relationship with our church shapes who we are and how we conduct our mission.
According to the University Senate's "Marks of a United Methodist-related educational institution," United Methodist-related colleges: Respects, honors and provides the teaching of religion, and specifically, appropriate scholarly theological teaching in the Christian tradition within the curriculum. In the case of professional institutions and programs, the curriculum includes opportunity for faculty and student reflection on the ethical dimensions of professional practice.

Respects and honors religious practice and, specifically, worship and service for students and faculty who choose to participate in the Christian tradition within the total life of the school.
Allows faculty and students to explore the place of religious belief and practice, and specifically, the intellectual dimensions of Christian faith, in all academic disciplines and co-curricular activities.

Encourages the exploration of the place of religious belief and practice in the larger society and advocates appropriate recognition of the contributions of religion to public life. Recognizes the Social Principles of the United Methodist Church and seeks to create a community of scholarship and learning which facilitates social justice. Includes in its faculty, administrative officers, and board of trustees persons who understand and respect the relationship with the United Methodist Church. The University Senate will monitor the college's progress during the ensuing five-year period.