About VRAS

Vision

VRAS serves the higher education community in Virginia by facilitating inter-institutional relationships and providing accurate information and reliable interpretation of SACSCOC policy.

The purposes of the VRAS are to:

  • Build relationships among faculty and staff responsible for compliance with SACSCOC policies and principles.
  • Provide resources for faculty and staff that deal with the intersection of state recognition and regional accreditation.
  • Serve as a forum for discussion about salient accreditation-related issues and how they affect Virginia institutions.
  • Share accreditation-related knowledge and experiences among Virginia institutions that may serve as an example or guidance to colleagues.
  • Welcome, engage, and mentor new members from within our own and other accredited institutions within the Commonwealth to share knowledge and ensure the future growth of the VRAS.

2025-26 VRAS Planning Board

  • Chair – Rachel Smith
  • Vice Chair – Nicholas Chitwood
  • Secretary – Sabrina Qureshi
  • Logistics Officer – Katherine Walker
  • Marketing and Membership Officer – Tisha Paredes
  • Evaluation and Planning Officer – Kerri-Beth Pettengill
  • Program Officer – Ryan Murnane
  • Technology Officer – Tisha Paredes
  • Treasurer – Cindy Chiarello
  • Constituent Representative – Jason Lyons