The NACIQI is composed of 18 members with six-year membership terms (except for the terms of the Committee’s initial members).
Qualifications
Per the HEOA, individuals are appointed as NACIQI members –
- On the basis of the individuals’ experience, integrity, impartiality, and good judgment;
- From among individuals who are representatives of, or knowledgeable concerning, education and training beyond secondary education, representing all sectors and types of institutions of higher education (as defined in section 201 of the HEA), as well as a student representative; and
- On the basis of the individuals’ technical qualifications, professional standing, and demonstrated knowledge in the fields of accreditation and administration in higher education.
Membership Composition
Members are appointed equally by the Secretary, House of Representatives, and the Senate as follows:
- Secretary – six appointees with three-year initial terms, including the student member;
- House of Representatives – six appointees by the Speaker of the House with four-year initial terms; three of whom shall be recommended by the majority leader of the House and three of whom shall be recommended by the minority leader of the House; and
- Senate – six appointees by the President pro tempore with six-year initial terms; three of whom shall be recommended by the majority leader of the Senate and three of whom shall be recommended by the minority leader of the Senate.
A vacancy on the Committee is filled in the same manner as the original appointment was made not later than 90 days after the date the vacancy occurs. The HEOA requires the Secretary to publish a Federal Register notice to solicit nominations for any of his/her vacancies. Also, the members of the Committee now select the Committee Chairperson (and Vice-Chair). The Committee decided at the Spring 2011 that the Chair and Vice-Chair would serve a three year-term.