The Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities (PAASCU) presented the James Meany, Jr. Award to the SMU President and two administrators during the PAASCU General Assembly on November 21, 2023 at Manila Marriott Hotel, Pasay City.

Dr. John Octavious S. Palina, University President, receives the James Meany Award for serving in 25 survey visits, for his unwavering pursuit of quality service in tertiary education, and selfless commitment to accreditation through the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities (PAASCU).

Dr. Mayvelyn Covita, Graduate Program Cluster Department Head for Business and Accountancy, and Dr. Gertrude Danao, University Registrar, were also recognized for the same award for serving in 10 survey visits.

In 2022, Dr. Moises Alexander Asuncion, Vice President for Academic Affairs, received the same award for serving in 25 survey visits.

As of 2023, SMU has six administrators contributing to the PAASCU accreditation process.

PAASCU is a voluntary accrediting agency that evaluates educational institutions and programs in the Philippines based on its criteria and standards.