"It is our view that CSUMB is a product of scholarship at its best -- rigorous, ethical, socially responsible, and respectful of the values and strengths of a diverse group of people who have adopted a common vision and sense of purpose."

-- Report of the WASC Educational Effectiveness Site Visit Team

Tuesday's accreditation of California State University, Monterey Bay is a big step in the university's future. After nearly nine years since it was founded, CSUMB can take its rightful place among its fellow California State campuses and peers across the nation.

Accreditation is more than icing on the cake. It is sought by most schools, including public, private, trade and graduate institutions. It's a defining moment for a university. It validates your educational philosophy and growth plans. It affirms that you've been on the right track all along in the planning and operation of your university.

Accreditation lifts your prestige as well as your spirit. It makes CSUMB more attractive to prospective students and faculty. It also makes you eligible for more grant money and other learning and teaching resources.

Of course, university President Peter Smith deserves credit for his leadership in steering CSUMB toward accreditation. He's been in charge from the beginning in 1994 when swords were turned into plowshares following the closure of Fort Ord and Army land was placed into public hands.

Smith certainly shares the spotlight with the staff, faculty and community supporters who've shared -- and now realize -- the dream of establishing a top-notch public university in Monterey County.

Accreditation is the crown jewel of a university. It is a badge of honor that tells the public and the U.S. college system that you have arrived as a prestigious place of learning.

It's been quite a ride. The past several years have been a period of remarkable growth, expansion and development for CSUMB. Simultaneously, the university has dealt with the challenges and tensions that such growth and change bring.

For example, a university devoted to diversity at all levels of hiring and attendance still struggles to attract more Latinos and Asians among its faculty ranks. This must become a priority for a university based in a region with a substantial Latino and Asian community.

Much work remains to be done at CSUMB. But what's been accomplished so far cannot be denied. That's why commissioners of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. voted 15-0 for accreditation. WASC granted initial accreditation for the maximum period -- seven years.

It's certainly a proud moment for the entire CSUMB community. It's success only adds to the high quality of life enjoyed by the residents of this county.

To everyone at CSUMB: Stay the course of your vision and growth, and keep up the good work.