Help Shape the Future of SAF Accreditation

Please join the Society of American Foresters Educational Policy Review Committee (EPRC) on Thursday, October 4 in room A106 at the Oregon Convention Center for a World Café-style conversation about SAF accreditation. SAF currently has four standards under which educational programs can be accredited – Natural Resources and Ecosystem Management (NREM), Urban Forestry, Forest Technology, and Forestry. In keeping with best practice for specialized accreditors, the EPRC will embark on a review of the SAF accreditation procedures and standards, beginning with a conversation designed to gather thoughts from a cross-section of SAF members and accreditation stakeholders. To help visualize participant input, we will employ a Graphic Recorder.

The first of two sessions, from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, will seek insights into:
• how managing forested landscapes and education will change in the next 10-20 years; 
• how to balance new graduates’ needs for technical skills and social skills;
• what does/should SAF accreditation mean; and 
• what should be considered in reviewing accreditation procedures and standards?

The second of two sessions, from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM, will explore:
• how necessary is accreditation and what would it look like if it was more effective;
• how might we encourage welcoming cultures for every student within accredited programs;
• how many accreditation standards should there be and what are the core outcomes of accredited programs; and
• in what direction would you like to see SAF accreditation advance?

ALL are welcome to participate – in one or both sessions or even part of either session as your convention schedule allows.

Questions? Please contact Carol Redelsheimer.