Did you know North Idaho College has been on the brink of losing its accreditation?

Even though North Idaho College (NIC) will continue to operate for one more year, it is under the shadow of a “show-cause” designation. In other words, college officials must still prove to the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities that NIC should keep their accreditation into the future. The risk of NIC losing accreditation is still a possibility.

The NWCCU Board of Commissioners issued NIC a Sanction of Warning on April 1, 2022. Subsequently, it issued a Sanction of Show Cause in February 2023 because of issues relating to board governance and institutional integrity, specifically the Board of Trustees, including under the leadership of Eve’s opponent, Greg McKenzie.

The risk of losing accreditation is due to poor board governance — not administration, staff, curriculum, or students, but solely the board of trustees. As a trustee, Eve’s opponent has struggled with policies and procedures. Millions of taxpayer dollars have been wasted through mismanagement. Behavior towards the public is often characterized by outbursts riddled with name-calling, contributing to the potential loss of accreditation.

Eve Knudtsen understands board governance. She has been a voting member and chair on several local, regional, and national boards. She is more than proficient with policies and procedures. She respects her fellow community members. In addition to her stellar servanthood resume, Eve will represent the trades sector and can bring an instant connection with many of the major employers here in North Idaho. These are companies that will employ our educated students. These companies want to be and are part of the community college.

College accreditation matters to parents, students, and educators. It matters to employers. It should matter to you because it provides confidence that a degree or certification from North Idaho College has value.