![Three people smiling, wearing casual and formal college-themed attire, seated outdoors.](/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2026-01/1718222551628.jpg.webp?itok=F7nGGzbr) ## Welcome to OPAR The mission of the Office of Planning, Accreditation and Institutional Research is to coordinate institution-wide planning, assessment and institutional research activities in support of the University's three-fold mission of teaching, research and service. These activities include strategic and operational planning, assessment, institutional research and institutional reporting and surveys. The Office's efforts are directed toward identifying, analyzing and monitoring internal and external trends and developments that influence the University's mission and strategic vision. ### Information The Office coordinates the implementation of the University's institutional effectiveness system, supports accreditation activities and provides Web support services. Through its research and analytical activities, the Office develops recommendations on strategic responses, policy issues and plans of action, and provides information and data that inform administrative and management decisions. - ### [ Institutional Planning ](/about/offices-resources/office-planning-accreditation-and-institutional-research/institutional-planning) - ### [ Institutional Assessment ](/about/offices-resources/office-planning-accreditation-and-institutional-research/institutional-assessment) - ### [ Institutional Research ](/about/offices-resources/office-planning-accreditation-and-institutional-research/institutional-research) ## OPAR Contacts **Dr. Lauren Lopez**, Vice President, Office of Planning, Accreditation and Institutional Research/ SACSCOC Institutional Accreditation Liaison (IAL) Telephone: (404) 971-1593 E-mail: **Dr. Shontell Stanford**, Asst. Vice President of Institutional Effectiveness Telephone: (404) 880-8082 E-mail: **Ms. Elissa Mena**, Asst. Vice President for Accreditation and Data Management Telephone: (404) 880-8064 E-mail: [emena@cau.edu](mailto:www.emena@cau.edu) **Ms. Dawn Mitchem**, Project Manager Telephone: (404) 880-8061 E-mail: ## Contact Us Phone: 404-880-8061 300, Kresge Hall 223 James P Brawley Drive Atlanta, GA 30314