KEY WEST, FL, November 18, 2025— The College of the Florida Keys (CFK) was granted initial accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) on November 6, 2025. CFK earned accredited status after completing the Accelerated Process for Initial Accreditation and demonstrating it meets all HLC foundational requirements, which include eligibility requirements, criteria for accreditation, assumed practices, obligations of membership, and compliance with federal regulations.

Founded in 1895, HLC is a private nonprofit accrediting agency and the nation’s largest institutional accreditor recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. HLC accredits approximately 1,000 colleges and universities in the United States. Recent Florida legislation allows colleges and universities to pursue accreditation with an accreditor other than the previously required agency, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

CFK is among the first public institutions in Florida to reach this milestone with another institutional accreditor. Since 1968, the College has been accredited by SACSCOC. While CFK is currently accredited by both SACSCOC and HLC, work is underway to make HLC the College’s primary accreditor with the U.S. Department of Education.

“This initial accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission is a significant milestone. It reflects the quality and caliber of our academic and career training programs,” said Dr. Jonathan Gueverra, CFK President and CEO. “HLC’s stamp of approval confirms the dedication of our employees to improving student success every day and demonstrates our ongoing commitment to excellence and continuous improvement for our students and community.”

HLC’s quality standards focus on institutional mission, integrity, ethical conduct, teaching and learning quality, resources and support, evaluation and improvement, and institutional effectiveness in planning and resource management. The commission expects accredited institutions to provide evidence of quality education programs, maintain strong evaluation and improvement practices, and ensure ongoing compliance with standards to promote continuous institutional improvement.

Accreditation is an ongoing relationship. As a member of HLC, CFK will participate in ongoing reviews for compliance with HLC standards and is committed to continuous improvement of its institution, providing high-quality education to students.

“We are always thrilled to welcome new members into the HLC community, and look forward to a partnership that will benefit students and the future of higher education,” said HLC President Barbara Gellman-Danley.