Each of these organizations completed a rigorous evaluation and review process which included writing an evidence-based report using each of the markers of quality in the NECHE Non-Credit Quality Assurance Framework. Two peer evaluators were sent to each organization to conduct a site visit and write an evaluation report. A Non-Credit Recognition Committee composed of Commissioners and external representatives with non-credit expertise then reviewed each organization and made recommendations to the Commission, which acted to recognize each institution at its September Commission meeting.

This is a momentous occasion for NECHE, which, as the oldest accrediting agency in the United States, has been accrediting colleges and universities for over 125 years. As noted by Commission Chairperson, Michaele Whelan, “We know that there are increasing number of students enrolled in non-credit programs. There has also been a growing need for quality assurance in this space. NECHE has taken the bold step to address this need and we are excited to expand our work into this area.” Tamara Johnson, Chief Operating Officer at Per Scholas, Inc. notes both the rigor and value of the recognition process: “Per Scholas is deeply honored to receive NECHE recognition.

We pursued this rigorous process to demonstrate that non-credit programs like ours can and should meet the highest standards of educational excellence. This recognition provides Per Scholas learners and their employers with a trusted, third-party endorsement of their skills and affirms our commitment to setting a new standard of quality for the entire skills-based training sector.”
Similarly, CCSU President Zulma Toro speaks to the value of the process and the collaborative partnership between NECHE and its recognized organizations: “We are thankful to have had the opportunity to participate in the pilot program, and proud to be the only institution in Connecticut to be recognized in the inaugural cohort. We look forward to our continued collaboration with NECHE.”
The Commission will begin accepting applications on November 3, 2025. We will be looking for a limited number of organizations to participate in its Spring 2026 cohort as well as its 2026-2027 cohort. NECHE is also accepting applications for peer evaluators for the
recognition process.

To learn more about NECHE’s Non-Credit Recognition Process, please visit our website or contact Laura Gambino, Vice President (lgambino@neche.org)