Office of Institutional Advancement
225 Hiwassee College Drive • Madisonville, Tennessee 37354
(423) 420-1245 • Fax: (423) 420-1896

MADISONVILLE, Tenn. — Hiwassee College has received a favorable decision in its litigation against the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).

On Monday, February 6, Judge J. Owen Forrester of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Georgia agreed to one of the issues presented in the suit. The judge ruled there was a conflict of interest in the accrediting body’s action against the Madisonville, TN, college.

“This is a significant moment in our legal efforts,” stated Hiwassee President Dr. Jim Noseworthy. “We have prevailed on one of the several issues of our case. The decision means SACS cannot take steps that would cut off Hiwassee's financial aid or remove accreditation.”

“This is an important—but not the final—step in our pursuit of justice,” said Noseworthy. Both parties now have ten days to review the decision. There will be additional discussion regarding how both parties proceed. Hiwassee’s claim for damages is yet to be heard.

The good news arrives just as the college is beginning the annual fund campaign, “Opening Doors . . . Creating Opportunities.” “This year’s campaign, with a goal of $608,000, is important for two reasons. First, the annual fund is the source of scholarships for current students. In addition, this is an excellent opportunity for alumni, friends, and the greater community to demonstrate a unified commitment to a strong future for Hiwassee College."

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Hiwassee College is a coeducational college affiliated with the Holston Conference of the United Methodist Church and is Tennessee’s only residential, private, two-year, liberal arts college Hiwassee College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097; telephone 404-679-4501) to award the Associate of Arts Degree, the Associate of Science Degree, and the Associate of Applied Science Degree. Working and learning on Hiwassee’s 400 acres of sprawling hills are approximately 400 students and 100 faculty and staff.