The WSCUC stated in its “Commission Action Letter” that its decision “confirms that [DRBU] has addressed the three Core Commitments and has successfully completed the institutional review process for Initial Accreditation.” With this decision, DRBU becomes the first accredited four-year institution in Mendocino County. (DRBU News)

DRBU is a small, private, non-profit university and Buddhist community located adjacent to the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas community and monastery in the northern California town of Ukiah. Dedicated to liberal education in the Buddhist tradition, the university was established in 1976 by Venerable Master Hsuan Hua under the educational philosophy of “developing inherent wisdom.” 

In its accreditation report, the WSCUC commended DRBU for demonstrating “a strong sense of student centeredness that is still possible in higher education.” And noted, “DRBU is poised to sustain and advance itself as an acknowledged leader in innovative higher education.” (DRBU News)

“Achieving accreditation is an important milestone for DRBU on a path that began when the late Venerable Master Hsuan Hua founded the university more than 40 years ago,” said DRBU president Susan Rounds, expressing gratitude to the DRBU community. “His exalted vision of liberal education in the broad Buddhist tradition, leading to radically free and radically responsible individuals who pursue the highest goals of human existence continues to inspire us. We take to heart the WSCUC visiting team’s specific affirmation of DRBU’s dedication to transforming the lives of our students and look forward to the new opportunities for DRBU that come with initial accreditation.” (DRBU News)