President Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges | Decatur, Georgia We are delighted to announce that the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) has elected Dr. Stephen L. Pruitt as its next president. He will officially assume the role on August 1, 2025.Dr. Pruitt, who currently serves as president of the Southern Regional Education Board, will replace Dr. Belle S. Wheelan, who is retiring after 20 years leading the accreditation body.With more than three decades of experience in education, Dr. Pruitt brings extensive leadership credentials to the position. He previously served as commissioner of education for the Kentucky Department of Education and as chief of staff and associate state superintendent for the Georgia Department of Education.Dr. Pruitt holds degrees from three SACSCOC-accredited institutions: a Bachelor of Science in chemistry from University of North Georgia, a Master of Education from University of West Georgia, and a Doctor of Philosophy in chemistry education from Auburn University.Keight Tucker Kennedy and Pam Pezzoli led the search with Robin Dougherty and Melissa Barravecchio.
