Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) has reaffirmed its commitment to keep its doors open despite recent setbacks.
A recent arbitration decision upheld the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges’ (SACSCOC) move to remove the university from membership. However, school officials have assured students and the community that the university will remain accredited and operational during ongoing legal challenges.
SAU officials announced that, in response to the arbitration outcome, the university’s attorneys will file an injunction in court to prevent any disruption to its accreditation status. This legal action is expected to extend SAU’s accredited status throughout the transition, guaranteeing that all current and future graduates will receive degrees from an accredited institution.
“We will stop at nothing to ensure that SAU maintains its accreditation and continues serving our students,” said Board of Trustees Chairman Brian Boulware. “Our resolve to educate and empower our students is unshakeable, and the entire SAU community stands together to support the path ahead.”
Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess emphasized that SAU is not closing, and classes will continue as planned. The university is set to commence Fall 2025 classes virtually for both new and returning students.
University has outlined a recovery plan
Despite the accreditation setback, SAU has made notable strides in financial recovery and institutional reform over the past year:
- Debt Restructuring & New Funding: SAU secured a $7 million loan from Gothic Ventures and is finalizing a major partnership leveraging campus real estate for redevelopment, aiming to clear existing debts and fund future investments.
- Enhanced Financial Controls: The university completed four consecutive annual financial audits (FY21–FY24), ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Cost Restructuring: Operations were streamlined in late 2024, reducing expenditures by approximately 50% and achieving $17 million in annual savings, resulting in a balanced budget for the current fiscal year.
- Strengthened Governance: The Board of Trustees and administration have implemented new oversight processes and a sustainability plan to support long-term fiscal health.
SAU’s leadership remains focused on providing a high-quality, uninterrupted educational experience. The university’s “SAU Reset” five-year strategic plan aims to propel the institution forward, with a continued emphasis on academic excellence and student success.
“Maintaining accreditation is a critical step in our plan to safeguard our students’ futures,” said Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples, Interim Provost & Vice President of Academic Affairs. “We are confident that we can continue providing federal financial aid and an accredited degree pathway for our students.”
To support ongoing litigation and institutional initiatives, SAU has launched the Falcon Pride Initiative, seeking to raise $1 million to cover legal costs, including a $350,000 retainer fee. The university calls on alumni, donors, and the wider Raleigh community to remain steadfast during this period of transition.
SAU staying the course
SAU’s leadership is actively engaging with state and federal education officials, alumni, and partners to ensure a smooth transition and to keep the community informed. The university’s doors remain open, and its mission to provide a nurturing, high-quality education endures.
“The Falcon community’s spirit is unbroken. SAU will continue to soar to greater heights, demonstrating that perseverance and commitment can overcome any challenge on the path to institutional renewal,” said Trustee Sophie Gibson.
