St. Aug University Reports Decision Reversed To Strip Accreditation

By: Cash Michaels

Embattled St. Augustine’s University in Raleigh will have its doors open for the coming fall semester, thanks to a reversal by the arbitration committee of The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to reinstate the private, small HBCU of its accreditation membership.

SAU may still be in business, but it’s not out of the woods yet per its pressing problems. The school is still at least $10 million in debt to the federal government, owes hundreds of thousands of dollars to vendors, and is facing several lawsuits from former employees.

Still, regaining accreditation was seen as a. important victory.

“The SACSCOC arbitration committee’s decision serves as a pivotal moment for SAU’s redemption and renewal,” said Brian Boulware, chairman of the SAU Board of Trustees. “The unanimous reversal by the arbitration committee rightfully corrects the injustice inflicted upon SAU by SACSCOC’s initial ruling and underscores the university’s steadfast commitment to excellence and growth.”

It was December 2023 when SACSCOC stripped SAU of its accreditation and placed the school on probation. In February, an Appeals Committee rejected SAU’s request for a reversal, leaving the school on probation until this week.

“This reinstatement acknowledges SAU’s relentless dedication to upholding academic standards and ensuring a thriving educational environment for our students,” said SAU Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. “We are resolute in our mission to overcome challenges and emerge stronger than ever.”

“The commitment and resilience shown by our community throughout this ordeal exemplify the spirit and determination that define Saint Augustine’s University,” said Dr. Janelle Jennings-Alexander, Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs. “Our faculty and staff’s tireless efforts to preserve SAU’s legacy of educational distinction help strengthen us in this accreditation journey.”

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