COMPLIANCE AUDIT REPORTS

Section 3:  Comprehensive Standard 3.2.4

The governing board is free from undue influence from political, religious, or other external bodies, and protects the institution from such influence.

Statement of Compliance:  Dyersburg State Community College is in compliance with Comprehensive Standard 3.2.4.

Rationale for Judgment of Compliance: 

The Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) is charged with the responsibility of “preserving citizens’ control of postsecondary education in Tennessee” [Ref 1].  The policy further notes, “The Board of Regents views itself as the responsible agency for the purpose and proposals of the System subject only to legislatively mandated review” [Ref 2].

To ensure diversity and to protect decision-making from undue influence, state law directs that membership of the Board consist of representatives from different congressional, geographical, and political areas. Further, members are to be representative of different ages and racial and gender groups. Faculty and students are to be included also [Ref 3] [Ref 4]. The appointed members shall be subject to confirmation by the Senate, but appointments shall be effective until adversely acted upon by the Senate [Ref 5].

TBR policy provides for equal rights of individual Board members and directs that each member be cognizant that they are representing the entire system, not an individual school or entity [Ref 6]. Any Board member holding a minority view may request that his or her view be made a matter of record [Ref 7].

Authored by Dr. Karen A. Bowyer in coordination with the SACS Leadership Team

Documentation: