Like most institutions, Norfolk State University has had its share of triumphs and challenges during its history. For 80 years, NSU has served as a beacon of access and opportunity for many without regard to race, socio-economic status, gender or age. It comes as no surprise then, that when the institution was placed on warning in 2013 and probation in 2014 by the regional accrediting agency, the university community rallied to ensure that this great institution continues to serve its mission for many more years.
This December, when the board of trustees for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges meets to review our progress, I fully expect the successful resolution of its concerns. The board also will witness a Norfolk State that is repositioning itself by producing technologically savvy students, offering cutting-edge facilities and academic programs and being fiscally prudent in our daily operations.
There are points of pride that NSU must make known to demonstrate that we are prepared to meet the ever-changing needs of our global society:
- NSU has specialized accreditations with 15 different accrediting agencies, including regional accreditation with the SACSCOC, for more than 25 different academic programs.
- Accreditation for four high-demand programs has been reaffirmed: the bachelor of science in nursing (reaffirmation until 2025); bachelor and master of social work (reaffirmation until 2022); bachelor of engineering (reaffirmation until 2020); and doctor of philosophy in clinical psychology (reaffirmation until 2020).
- NSU was awarded nearly $30 million in grants by the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration and the Department of Defense this year in support of cybersecurity initiatives. NSU is working with other higher education institutions to create the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.
- Designation as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense by the National Security Agency and Department of Homeland Security was reaffirmed through 2020. In August, an online master’s degree program in cybersecurity will be offered to prospective and current students.
- NSU faculty members continue to receive state recognition for excellence. This year, Dr. Aswini Pradhan, professor of engineering, was selected as a recipient of the 2015 Outstanding Faculty Award presented by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia, and Dr. Mikhail Noginov, professor of physics, was named one of Virginia’s Outstanding Scientists for 2015 by Gov. Terry McAuliffe and the Science Museum of Virginia.
Financial audits for fiscal years 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 are complete, bringing NSU into financial reporting compliance. With the projected decline in enrollment, the university was right-sized so we can now invest in enhancing instructional capacity for high-demand academic areas, such as social work, nursing and accounting.
The good that is happening at NSU continues despite challenges. It is a new day in higher education, and we are repositioning NSU for a brighter future. To realize our future, it is imperative that we quickly adapt, address our challenges head-on and capitalize on our considerable achievements. I am confident that we will continue to build on our accomplishments, remembering those who came before us and renewing our mission of academic excellence and service to students and the community. We owe it to our students, alumni and to the general public. I look forward to being a part of this great era of change at Norfolk State University. Behold the Green and Gold!
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