Southeastern Accreditation Reaffirmed by ATS:

                       Vol. VII, No. 6, August 1994

Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary's accreditation problems ended 28 June when the seminary received official notice that the Association of Theological Schools has reaffirmed accreditation of all degree programs and re-established the seminary as a member in good standing with the association. Accreditation by a professional agency such as ATS not only gives an institution academic credibility but also facilitates the transfer of academic credit and enables students to receive certain scholarships and vocational endorsements. Southeastern President Paige Patterson said, "We're ready to kick in the afterburners. We are delighted that ATS has affirmed the seminary's academic program and we are ready to expand educational opportunities for our students." [BP]

SE to Open 3 Extension Centers:

Southeastern Seminary will offer classes this fall at three extension centers located in churches in Augusta, GA, Charlotte, NC, and Norfolk, VA. Dr. Paige Patterson, seminary president, said, "The purpose of these centers is to provide fully accredited, quality theological studies in an off-campus setting for individuals who have been called by God into Christian service but are unable to come to our main campus in Wake Forest to prepare for that calling." Each center will offer most of the master of divinity requirements over a five-year academic schedule. Students will still be required to take some credit hours at SE's main campus. Classes begin 22 August and will meet only on Mondays. The center at First Baptist Church, Norfolk, may be reached at 804-461-3226. Dr. Patterson also said, "This is a critical day of intense spiritual warfare. At stake in the struggle are the eternal destinies of millions. We are responsible to share with them the gospel of our Lord. Every preparation we can make for this task is absolutely critical. That is why Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary is making this opportunity available."