[ The Atlanta Journal-Constitution: 6/16/03 ]
Life students turn their tassels 
By JENNIFER BRETT 
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution 


At the nadir of Life University's accreditation woes, Claudette Chang wondered 
if she'd ever attend her own graduation.
As it turned out, though, she didn't have to settle for a diploma sent through the 
mail. She received her degree in nutrition in a packed gymnasium.
"I'm so happy," Chang said Sunday after the Marietta school's commencement 
ceremony, where about 300 graduates turned their tassels.
Life, at one time the nation's largest chiropractic school, lost its accreditation 
with the Council on Chiropractic Education a year ago. After learning it would 
take a minimum of two years to restore its credentials, the university sued the 
accrediting agency for more than $100 million in damages. A federal court 
restored Life's accreditation in February until the lawsuit could be resolved. The 
accreditation agency is appealing that order.
Several speakers mentioned the accreditation battle in their remarks.
"You have been through the emotional upheaval of being with us during one of 
the most difficult times our university has been through," said Susan Dudt, 
director of student life.
Graduates gave a thunderous welcome and sprung to their feet as Life 
President Dr. Ben DeSpain stood to say a few words.
"This is a day many people doubted would ever come," said DeSpain, who 
became president after Dr. Sid Williams left the school he founded in 1974. 
"Many feared Life had held its last graduation."