Towards a Development of the Triad Concept: A Synthesis of the Belmont Retreat on Institutional Licensure, Eligibility and Accreditation.

The issues involved in institutional licensure, determination of eligibility for federal funds and private accreditation are complex. Each of these functions is undertaken by an element of the "triad" of postsecondary education governance -- the states, the federal Government, and the private accrediting agencies. These three elements comprise a system of checks and balances that result in the need for increased communication. To provide the opportunity for such communication the Postsecondary Education Convening Authority sponsored a retreat on governmental and private institutional approval. This synthesis of the Belmont retreat reflects the efforts underway by representatives of each element toward a cooperative effort in postsecondary education governance. Also included are a list of the Belmont participants and a poem that conferees agreed captures the essence of what went on there. (Author)