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.