State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA) creates a nationally recognized voluntary framework that allows states, territories, and institutions to work together to expand access, quality, and oversight in distance education while reducing unnecessary costs and bureaucracy. The agreements are managed by the four regional education compacts in conjunction with the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) and the member states.
The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements, in collaboration with the four regional higher education compacts (NEBHE, MHEC, SREB and WICHE), was established to develop and implement an effective and efficient reciprocal state-level authorization process for postsecondary distance education. Its mission is to provide broad access to postsecondary education opportunities to students across the country, to increase the quality and value of higher learning credentials earned via distance education, and to assure students are well served in a rapidly changing education landscape.
NC-SARA Mission & History
Each regional compact has a Regional Steering Committee (RSC) that oversees the SARA work and ensures compliance amongst their member states and participating institutions. The RSC is comprised of representatives from state regulators (SPE), institutions, and accreditors that routinely meet to provide guidance, serve as subject matter experts, and advise on matters relevant to the region.
The State Portal Entity (SPE) is the SARA point of contact and expert for their state. They are responsible for evaluating participating institutions located in their state and serve on the Regional Steering Committee (RSC).
Michael T. Perry, Director, Office of Higher Education & Educator Support Services, Maine Department of Education – Chair
Learn MoreAlexander A. Nally, Deputy General Counsel, Massachusetts Department of Higher Education
Learn MoreNikki Bryant, State Authorization and Compliance Analyst, Southern New Hampshire University
Learn MoreEric Taylor, Director, Office of Licensure, Office of the Secretary of Higher Education
Learn MoreAndrea Richards, Supervisor of Higher Education Programs, Office of College and University Evaluation, New York State Education Department
Learn MoreRebecca Ryan, Coordinator of Veterans Education and State Approving Agency, Rhode Island Office of the Postsecondary Commissioner
Learn MoreJennifer Alberico, Associate Academic Dean, Community College of Vermont
Katie Gagliardo, Post Secondary Coordinator, Vermont Agency of Education
Learn MoreMark Nicholas Vice President, Commission on Institutions of Higher Education, New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
Learn MoreLooking to find more information about SARA or state authorization more generally? You’re in the right place.
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Director, State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA)
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Program Coordinator, Tuition Break and State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA)
Contact the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements team using the form below.
