Jul 20, 2010 By Herald Standard Staff 2 min read

The Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), which accredits more than 680 educational institutions throughout the United States and more than a dozen foreign countries, has designated Douglas Education Center (DEC) as an Honor Roll Institution. DEC representative Patricia DeConcilis, director of education, accepted the award on behalf of DEC at the awards luncheon, which was part of the 2010 ACICS Leadership Conference and annual meeting in Las Vegas, Nev.

“I was truly honored to accept this prestigious award on behalf of the faculty and administration of DEC. This is an award that recognizes the efforts, on a daily basis, of all DEC departments. I am proud to be a part of such a committed and dedicated group of educators and administrators,” she said.

In its letter congratulating DEC President Jeffrey Imbrescia, the ACICS noted, “During the recent evaluation for a new grant of accreditation, your institution demonstrated exemplary standards and a clear understanding of the ACICS accreditation criteria. The council has recognized this achievement by designating you as an Honor Roll Institution.”

This distinction comes after ACICS awarded DEC the maximum 8-year grant of re-accreditation.

“This is truly a wonderful achievement and a tribute to the faculty and staff of DEC who work tirelessly everyday to deliver the highest quality of education and services to our students,” Imbrescia said.

Founded in 1912, ACICS is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) as a reliable authority on the quality of education provided by colleges, universities and schools it accredits.

Established in 1904, Douglas Education Center (DEC) offers programs in special make-up effects, digital film, illustration, graphic design, cosmetology, medical and business. DEC instructors are industry professionals who have actual working knowledge and experience in the programs in which they teach.

To learn more about DEC and its programs, go online to www.dec.edu.