News

Tillie's Dream Wins DOT Contract for
USMMA MSCHE Reaccreditation Support

September 1, 2024

Sarasota, FL - Tillie's Dream, a provider of professional consulting, education and training services to the federal government, has won a contract with the Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration division to assist the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy with preparation for reaccreditation from the Middle States Council on Higher Education (MSCHE). The MSCHE is a non-governmental, voluntary membership association that accredits institutions of higher education in the United States. MSCHE is recognized by the United States Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

"We are honored to support the USMMA by providing training and support to faculty and staff in developing, assessing, and reporting on their Academic Assessment System," said Tillie's Dream Owner Deb DuCey. "Providing guidance and support in the development of an institution-wide culture of assessment will enable the USMMA to meet the quality standards of MSCHE accreditation, assuring students and the public of their continued excellence in higher education."

Tillie's Dream is a consultancy that services federal clients by teaming with subject matter experts to deliver tailored, high-impact solutions that drive institutional excellence and achievement.

With a background in executive search and leadership consulting at Heidrick & Struggles, DuCey's strengths lie in her ability to source the best talent and provide streamlined project management and administration processes that maximize project outcomes.

To assist the USMMA, located in Kings Point, New York, DuCey created an A-team of talented education professionals with a strong background in transformational leadership, organizational culture, and MSCHE evaluation expertise.

Our team is uniquely positioned to guide USMMA through the reaccreditation process. By leveraging our collective expertise in higher education and accreditation standards, We will work closely with USMMA faculty and staff to implement robust assessment practices, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and ensure compliance with MSCHE standards”, DuCey said. “This collaborative approach will not only support USMMA's immediate reaccreditation goals but also establish sustainable processes for long-term institutional excellence and student success.”