staugadmin – Saint Augustine's University Transform.Excel.Lead Tue, 07 Jul 2026 13:43:21 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1 /wp-content/uploads/2018/06/cropped- 探花精选-vertical-01-2-32x32.png staugadmin – Saint Augustine's University 32 32 探花精选 Expands Workforce Education Through New Professional Certificate Programs /sau-expands-workforce-education-through-new-professional-certificate-programs/ Tue, 07 Jul 2026 13:43:19 +0000 /?p=44047 Faculty-developed online programs begin this fall and provide flexible pathways for career advancement, teacher preparation, and lifelong learning. Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) is expanding its workforce education offerings with the launch of a new portfolio of Professional Certificate Programs听beginning this fall. Developed and taught by 探花精选 faculty, the fully online programs provide learners with flexible, […]

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Faculty-developed online programs begin this fall and provide flexible pathways for career advancement, teacher preparation, and lifelong learning.


Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) is expanding its workforce education offerings with the launch of a new portfolio of Professional Certificate Programs听beginning this fall. Developed and taught by 探花精选 faculty, the fully online programs provide learners with flexible, career-focused educational opportunities designed to help meet the evolving workforce needs of North Carolina and beyond.

鈥淭hroughout our history, 探花精选 has remained committed to transforming lives through education,鈥 said Sophie Gibson, Chair of the 探花精选 Board of Trustees. 鈥淭hese new programs reflect that enduring commitment by expanding educational opportunities that prepare learners for meaningful careers while responding to the workforce needs of our communities and state. We are proud to support initiatives that strengthen our mission through innovation, collaboration, and service.鈥

The initial portfolio includes Professional Certificate Programs in Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, Python for Data Science, Java Programming, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, and Community-Level Public Health, fields that prepare learners with practical knowledge and skills aligned with today鈥檚 growing life sciences and healthcare industries. Each program is designed to provide accessible, high-quality instruction that learners can immediately apply in professional settings while earning a 探花精选 Professional Certificate.

The initiative reflects a vision initially proposed by 探花精选 Interim President Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples, who joined 探花精选 in 2025 in her previous role as Interim Vice President of Academic Affairs.听Recognizing the growing demand for flexible, workforce-focused educational opportunities, Dr. Peoples championed the development of faculty-led professional certificate programs and alternative career pathways that complement the university鈥檚 longstanding tradition of academic excellence. Her vision continues to guide the university鈥檚 efforts to expand access to high-quality educational opportunities that prepare learners for success in today鈥檚 evolving workforce.

鈥 探花精选 has always been committed to preparing students for lives of leadership, service, and meaningful careers,鈥 said 探花精选 Interim President Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples. 鈥淭hese new programs build upon the expertise of our outstanding faculty while expanding educational opportunities that meet learners where they are and prepare them for the needs of today鈥檚 workforce. This initiative reflects our commitment to innovation, access, and academic excellence as we continue serving students and communities throughout North Carolina and beyond.鈥

In addition to its new Professional Certificate Programs, 探花精选 will continue offering its Teacher Residency Licensure Program听for Elementary Education and Health & Physical Education in partnership with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI). The program provides an alternative pathway for aspiring educators to earn teacher licensure while helping school districts address North Carolina鈥檚 ongoing need for qualified classroom teachers.

The Professional Certificate Programs were developed by 探花精选 faculty, combining academic expertise with practical, workforce-relevant learning experiences. Designed for working professionals, recent graduates, career changers, and lifelong learners, the fully online format allows students to balance coursework with professional and personal commitments while earning a credential from 探花精选.

The launch of these programs represents an important step in the university鈥檚 continued operational efforts to expand educational opportunities while responding to workforce needs across North Carolina. The university also continues to explore future partnerships with employers, industry leaders, and community organizations to help ensure its educational offerings remain aligned with emerging workforce demands.

In addition to its faculty-developed Professional Certificate Programs, 探花精选 will continue offering hundreds of online continuing education courses through its longstanding partnership with ed2go.听While the ed2go catalog听provides a broad range of professional development and personal enrichment opportunities through an external education partner, the university鈥檚 Professional Certificate Programs are developed and taught by university faculty and culminate in a 探花精选 credential.

As 探花精选 continues its operational and strategic planning efforts, the university remains focused on providing educational programs and services that benefit learners, strengthen communities, and contribute to North Carolina鈥檚 workforce needs. The launch of these programs reflects the university鈥檚 ongoing commitment to serving students and communities through practical, mission-driven educational opportunities while continuing its more than 158-year legacy of transforming lives through education.

Click here听to explore available programs and enrollment information.

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探花精选 Receives Nearly $28K from National Alumni Association of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University /sau-receives-nearly-28k-from-national-alumni-association-of-saint-augustines-university/ Wed, 01 Jul 2026 22:48:23 +0000 /?p=44023 Demonstrating their tireless commitment to the future of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选), the National Alumni Association of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University (NAA- 探花精选) has successfully concluded its 鈥淪oar & Rise鈥 Campaign, raising $27,694.24 in unrestricted operating support for the university. 鈥淭he National Alumni Association鈥檚 generosity is a powerful expression of confidence in Saint Augustine鈥檚 University and the […]

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Demonstrating their tireless commitment to the future of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选), the National Alumni Association of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University (NAA- 探花精选) has successfully concluded its 鈥淪oar & Rise鈥 Campaign, raising $27,694.24 in unrestricted operating support for the university.

鈥淭he National Alumni Association鈥檚 generosity is a powerful expression of confidence in Saint Augustine鈥檚 University and the work that lies ahead,鈥 said Sophie Gibson, Chair of the Saint Augustine鈥檚 University Board of Trustees. 鈥淲e are deeply appreciative of the dedication of our alumni, whose continued support reflects the strength of the Falcon community and our shared commitment to preserving and advancing this historic institution. Every contribution represents not only an investment in today鈥檚 operations, but also in the future of 探花精选.鈥

The campaign brought together alumni and supporters from across the country in a collective effort to invest in the university鈥檚 ongoing operations and reaffirm their belief in 探花精选鈥檚 enduring mission of transforming lives through education.

鈥淭he dedication shown by our alumni continues to inspire us,鈥 said 探花精选 Interim President Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples. 鈥淭he 鈥楽oar & Rise鈥 Campaign demonstrates that the Falcon family remains united by a shared belief in our mission and our students. We are sincerely grateful for every alumnus, alumna, and friend who answered the call to support 探花精选 during this important time.鈥

The unrestricted nature of the gift allows the university to apply the funds where they are most needed, supporting ongoing operations while continuing to serve students, faculty, staff, and the broader community. The campaign was led by the National Alumni Association of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University, whose members continue to play a vital role in strengthening alumni engagement, preserving the university鈥檚 legacy, and supporting its future.

鈥淥ur theme, 鈥楽oar & Rise,鈥 reflects more than a fundraising campaign, it reflects the resilience, determination, and enduring spirit of Falcon Nation,鈥 said Dr. Johnelle Sherald, 鈥76, outgoing president of the NAA- 探花精选. 鈥淓very gift represented an expression of pride, faith, and belief in the future of our beloved alma mater. We are thankful to every alumnus, alumna, chapter, and friend who participated in this effort, and we look forward to continuing to support 探花精选 in meaningful ways.鈥

The university and its alumni continue to work to preserve 探花精选鈥檚 proud legacy while supporting its future through service, leadership, and a shared commitment to educational excellence. While the 鈥淪oar & Rise鈥 Campaign has concluded, opportunities to support 探花精选 remain available.

听to learn more about the National Alumni Association of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University, membership opportunities, and alumni engagement initiatives.
Click here听to join alumni, friends, and supporters who wish to contribute to the university鈥檚 continued mission.听

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探花精选 Mourns the Passing of President Emeritus Dr. Prezell R. Robinson /sau-mourns-the-passing-of-president-emeritus-dr-prezell-r-robinson/ Tue, 30 Jun 2026 12:40:31 +0000 /?p=44019 Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) mourns the passing of Dr. Prezell R. Robinson, President Emeritus, distinguished alumnus, and the University鈥檚 eighth president, who passed away on June 29, 2026. A visionary educator, scholar, diplomat, and champion for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Dr. Robinson devoted more than eight decades of his life to 探花精选, leaving […]

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Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) mourns the passing of Dr. Prezell R. Robinson, President Emeritus, distinguished alumnus, and the University鈥檚 eighth president, who passed away on June 29, 2026. A visionary educator, scholar, diplomat, and champion for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Dr. Robinson devoted more than eight decades of his life to 探花精选, leaving an enduring legacy that transformed the institution and influenced higher education across the nation.

鈥淒r. Prezell R. Robinson鈥檚 legacy is woven into the very fabric of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University,鈥 said Sophie Gibson, Chair of the 探花精选 Board of Trustees. 鈥淗is decades of leadership, service, and unwavering belief in the power of education shaped this institution and touched countless lives. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, alumni, and the entire Falcon community as we honor a life devoted to Saint Augustine鈥檚 University.鈥

Born in Batesville, South Carolina, Dr. Robinson first arrived at Saint Augustine鈥檚 College (now University) as a student in 1944 after earning his associate鈥檚 degree. Following his graduation in 1946 with a bachelor鈥檚 degree in sociology, he earned both his master鈥檚 and doctoral degrees from Cornell University before returning to Saint Augustine鈥檚 as a faculty member, dean, and ultimately its eighth president. His lifelong relationship with the University spanned more than 80 years, as a student, alumnus, educator, administrator, president, professor, and ultimately President Emeritus.

鈥淒r. Robinson鈥檚 life reminds us of the extraordinary impact one leader can have on generations of students and an entire institution,鈥 said 探花精选 Interim President Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples. 鈥淎s an educator, scholar, mentor, alumnus, and President Emeritus, he dedicated his gifts to preparing future leaders and expanding educational opportunity far beyond our campus. His legacy of visionary leadership, academic excellence, and faithful service will continue to guide 探花精选 for generations to come.鈥

During his 28-year presidency from 1967 to 1995, 探花精选 experienced remarkable academic and physical growth, with many of the campus鈥檚 landmark facilities constructed under his leadership. Affectionately known throughout the Falcon community as 鈥淧rezi,鈥 he remained devoted to teaching and mentoring students long after his presidency, continuing to serve in the classroom into his late eighties while carrying the title of President Emeritus.

Dr. Robinson鈥檚 influence extended far beyond 探花精选. He received twelve honorary degrees and served as President of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), Chair of the National Association for Equal Opportunity in Higher Education (NAFEO), Vice Chair of the North Carolina State Board of Education, and a Fulbright Scholar who lectured internationally in India, Africa, and South America. His distinguished career also included appointments by Presidents Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush, and Bill Clinton to represent the United States on diplomatic missions in Africa.

探花精选 is honored to work alongside the Robinson family in preparing for a celebration of Dr. Robinson鈥檚 remarkable life. Memorial services will be held on the campus he loved and faithfully served for more than eight decades, where generations of students, alumni, colleagues, and friends will gather to celebrate his extraordinary legacy. Service information is available through Haywood Funeral Home and will also be shared through the University鈥檚 official website and social media channels.

听to read Dr. Robinson鈥檚 online obituary and service arrangements.

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探花精选 Celebrates Graduates Whose Resilience Exemplifies the Falcon Spirit /sau-celebrates-graduates-whose-resilience-exemplifies-the-falcon-spirit/ Sun, 28 Jun 2026 14:31:20 +0000 /?p=44008 Graduates Reflect Resilience, Academic Excellence, and the Enduring Strength of Falcon Nation Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) proudly recognizes its graduates from the 2025-2026 academic year whose perseverance, resilience, and determination exemplify the strength of the Falcon community. These graduates, consisting of three Fall 2025 graduates and one Spring 2026 graduate, all earned accredited degrees. Their […]

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Graduates Reflect Resilience, Academic Excellence, and the Enduring Strength of Falcon Nation

Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) proudly recognizes its graduates from the 2025-2026 academic year whose perseverance, resilience, and determination exemplify the strength of the Falcon community. These graduates, consisting of three Fall 2025 graduates and one Spring 2026 graduate, all earned accredited degrees. Their accomplishments reflect extraordinary perseverance, resilience, and determination during a pivotal period in the university鈥檚 history.

鈥淭hese graduates have demonstrated remarkable courage and determination in pursuing their educational goals,鈥 said Sophie Gibson, Chair of the 探花精选 Board of Trustees. 鈥淭heir success reflects the strength of their character, the support of the Falcon community, and the enduring mission of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University to transform lives through education. We celebrate their achievements and look forward to the many ways they will contribute to their communities and professions.鈥

The graduates, Breann Bannister, Nazir Imhotep, Israel Pennerman, and Nicholas Black, each overcame unique personal, academic, and institutional challenges to reach this important milestone. Their accomplishments reflect not only individual achievement but also the enduring strength of the Saint Augustine鈥檚 University community.

鈥淭hese graduates embody the resilience, perseverance, and commitment to excellence that have defined 探花精选 for more than 150 years,鈥 said 探花精选 Interim President Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples. 鈥淲hile their paths to graduation were not without obstacles, they remained focused on their goals and completed their accredited degree programs. We are incredibly proud of each of them and look forward to seeing the impact they will make in their professions and communities.鈥

Breann Bannister, 鈥26
A native of The Bahamas, Bannister earned her degree in Elementary Education after navigating numerous personal and global challenges, including Hurricane Dorian, the COVID-19 pandemic, motherhood, postpartum depression, and significant disruptions to her educational journey. Through perseverance, faith, and determination, she remained committed to her goal of becoming an educator and completed her degree. She credits her children, family, professors, and mentors for helping her reach the finish line.

Nazir Imhotep, 鈥25
A Sport Management graduate from Chesapeake, Virginia, Imhotep distinguished himself both academically and athletically. A member of 探花精选鈥檚 track and field team, he competed under Olympian Coach Bershawn Jackson and proudly represented the university at national competitions, including the Razorback Invitational. He also maintained Dean鈥檚 List honors, earned the Meritorious Scholarship throughout his academic career, and served as Marketing Director for Residential Life, where he created innovative student engagement initiatives.

Israel Pennerman, 鈥25
Originally from Nassau, The Bahamas, Pennerman earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Health Science with a 3.7 GPA. Inspired by environmental and public health challenges in her home country, she developed a passion for disease prevention and biomedical research. Through research opportunities, mentorship from Dr. Tyrell Carr, and participation in programs at North Carolina State University, Pennerman built a strong academic foundation that has already led to acceptance into the Master of Health Science in Biomedical Science program at Grand Valley State University.

Nicholas Black, 鈥25
An Exercise Science graduate from Fayetteville, North Carolina, Black transferred to Saint Augustine鈥檚 University in Fall 2023 and quickly embraced opportunities to grow academically and professionally. His studies deepened his interest in athletic performance, injury prevention, and health promotion. Following graduation, Black will begin Army ROTC Cadet training at Duke University while pursuing a master鈥檚 degree in Kinesiology and Recreation Management at North Carolina Central University.

Together, these graduates represent the perseverance and determination that define the Falcon spirit. Their accomplishments serve as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, dedication, hard work, and faith can transform challenges into opportunities.

As 探花精选 continues implementing strategic initiatives designed to strengthen its future, the success of these graduates stands as a testament to the value of an 探花精选 education and the enduring impact of its faculty, staff, and supporters.

探花精选 congratulates Breann Bannister, Nazir Imhotep, Israel Pennerman, and Nicholas Black on earning their degrees and wishes them continued success in their future endeavors.

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探花精选 Merchandise Now Available on Amazon, Generating Revenue & Expanding Falcon Pride /sau-merchandise-now-available-on-amazon-generating-revenue-expanding-falcon-pride/ Thu, 25 Jun 2026 10:04:14 +0000 /?p=43992 Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) alumni, supporters, students, and friends can now easily shop officially licensed merchandise on Amazon to celebrate and support one of North Carolina鈥檚 historic HBCUs. 鈥淟icensed merchandise helps alumni and supporters stay connected and contribute to our growth and visibility,鈥 said 探花精选 Board Chair Sophie Gibson. 鈥淓ach purchase strengthens the Saint Augustine鈥檚 […]

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Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) alumni, supporters, students, and friends can now easily shop officially licensed merchandise on Amazon to celebrate and support one of North Carolina鈥檚 historic HBCUs.

鈥淟icensed merchandise helps alumni and supporters stay connected and contribute to our growth and visibility,鈥 said 探花精选 Board Chair Sophie Gibson. 鈥淓ach purchase strengthens the Saint Augustine鈥檚 University brand and shows the pride of the Falcon Family.鈥

The merchandise includes apparel, accessories, decals, license plate frames, and other favorites, highlighting the university鈥檚 Falcon brand and legacy since 1867.

Products are manufactured and distributed by licensed university partners like and , as part of 探花精选鈥檚 licensing program managed by Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC)鈥檚 CORE 81 program. Since partnering with CLC in 2021, 探花精选 has generated nearly $20,000 in royalties from merchandise sales and has been featured by national brands such as and

“ 探花精选 has a proud and resilient alumni base that continues to support the institution in meaningful ways,” said 探花精选 Interim President Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples. “Increasing merchandise accessibility allows our alumni and supporters across the country to represent the university and help strengthen the 探花精选 brand.”

Current offerings include:

  • T-shirts
  • Hoodies and sweatshirts
  • Women鈥檚 apparel
  • Decals and stickers
  • License plate frames
  • Falcon-branded accessories

Additional products and designs will be added as the university continues working with licensing partners to expand options and availability.

Why Purchase Licensed Merchandise?
When you purchase officially licensed Saint Augustine鈥檚 University merchandise, you help strengthen the visibility of the 探花精选 brand, support the university through royalty revenue, and demonstrate continued demand for 探花精选 products.

Strong sales attract more licensing partners, expand offerings, increase retail opportunities, and share the 探花精选 story with alumni, supporters, and future students. Every purchase proves Falcon Nation remains engaged and proud of the university鈥檚 legacy.

鈥淪ince partnering with CLC in 2021, we鈥檝e seen how licensing can elevate 探花精选鈥檚 brand and generate valuable revenue,鈥 said Demarcus Williams, Associate Vice President of Global Marketing & Communications. 鈥淲e encourage alumni and supporters to buy officially licensed products and show their Falcon pride everywhere.鈥

During this period of renewal, wearing licensed 探花精选 merchandise lets alumni and supporters honor the university鈥檚 history while building momentum for its future.

Supporting the Next Chapter
Officially licensed merchandise launches as 探花精选 implements restructuring aimed at long-term sustainability. Alumni engagement is key to this effort.

Whether at home, at work, at church, at events, at athletic competitions, or at alumni gatherings, 探花精选 merchandise is a visible reminder of the university鈥檚 generational impact and ongoing role in shaping future leaders.

The university encourages all alumni and supporters to purchase their officially licensed 探花精选 merchandise today, share their photos on social media with pride, and be an active part of the Falcon community.

Shop Official 探花精选 Merchandise
Official merchandise is available on Amazon from licensed partners, including and .

Wear the Legacy. Support the Future.
to learn more about the Saint Augustine鈥檚 University licensing program and start supporting 探花精选 today.

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Nicholas Black: Building Strength, Leadership, and a Future of Service /nicholas-black-building-strength-leadership-and-a-future-of-service/ Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:00:28 +0000 /?p=43989 Fall 2025 Graduate | Exercise Science Nicholas Black arrived at Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) with a commitment to personal growth and a desire to build a career centered on health, performance, and service to others. A native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, Black transferred to 探花精选 in Fall 2023 and quickly embraced opportunities to learn, lead, […]

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Fall 2025 Graduate | Exercise Science

Nicholas Black arrived at Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) with a commitment to personal growth and a desire to build a career centered on health, performance, and service to others.

A native of Fayetteville, North Carolina, Black transferred to 探花精选 in Fall 2023 and quickly embraced opportunities to learn, lead, and prepare for the next phase of his professional journey.

Pursuing a degree in Exercise Science, he developed a deeper understanding of human movement, athletic performance, injury prevention, and overall wellness. The program allowed him to combine his interest in health sciences with his passion for helping others achieve their full potential.

鈥淓xercise science gave me a greater appreciation for the impact that movement, health, and education can have on people鈥檚 lives,鈥 Black said.

Throughout his time at 探花精选, Black remained focused on building a foundation that would prepare him for both graduate education and military service.

Faculty members challenged him academically while encouraging him to think critically about leadership, discipline, and long-term career goals. Those experiences helped shape his vision for the future and reinforced his desire to serve others.

As graduation approached, Black began preparing for an ambitious next chapter.

Following the completion of his degree, he will participate in Army ROTC Cadet training at Duke University while simultaneously pursuing a master鈥檚 degree in Kinesiology and Recreation Management at North Carolina Central University.

The opportunity allows him to continue developing as both a scholar and future military officer while building expertise in health promotion, athletic performance, and recreation management.

For Black, the path forward represents more than academic advancement. It reflects a commitment to leadership, service, and lifelong learning.

Looking back, he credits 探花精选 with helping him develop the confidence and discipline needed to pursue his goals.

His journey demonstrates that success is built through preparation, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace new challenges.

As he embarks on graduate studies and military leadership training, Black carries with him the lessons learned at 探花精选 and the determination to make a positive impact wherever his career takes him.

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Israel Pennerman: From The Bahamas to Biomedical Science, A Journey of Discovery & Purpose /israel-pennerman-from-the-bahamas-to-biomedical-science-a-journey-of-discovery-purpose/ Sat, 20 Jun 2026 14:43:36 +0000 /?p=43926 Fall 2025 Graduate | Public Health Science For Israel Pennerman, pursuing a degree in Public Health Science was never simply about earning a diploma. It was about gaining the knowledge and skills needed to address health challenges facing communities around the world. Originally from Nassau, The Bahamas, Pennerman arrived at Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) with […]

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Fall 2025 Graduate | Public Health Science

For Israel Pennerman, pursuing a degree in Public Health Science was never simply about earning a diploma. It was about gaining the knowledge and skills needed to address health challenges facing communities around the world.

Originally from Nassau, The Bahamas, Pennerman arrived at Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) with a passion for science and a desire to make a meaningful impact through healthcare and research.

Throughout her academic journey, she developed a growing interest in disease prevention, environmental health, and biomedical research. Inspired by public health issues affecting communities in her home country and beyond, she sought opportunities to expand his knowledge both inside and outside the classroom.

Her dedication to academic excellence quickly became evident.

Pennerman earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Health Science while maintaining a 3.7 grade point average and consistently challenging herself through research experiences and advanced learning opportunities.

One of the most transformative aspects of her time at 探花精选 was the opportunity to work alongside faculty mentors who encouraged her to pursue her scientific interests.

She credits Dr. Tyrell Carr and other faculty members for helping her develop the confidence and technical skills necessary to pursue a career in biomedical science.

鈥淗aving professors who genuinely cared about my success made a tremendous difference,鈥 Pennerman said. 鈥淭hey challenged me to think critically and encouraged me to pursue opportunities beyond the classroom.鈥

Those opportunities included participating in research and academic experiences at North Carolina State University, where she gained additional exposure to scientific inquiry and laboratory-based learning.

Through these experiences, Pennerman strengthened her understanding of public health, research methodology, and the critical role science plays in improving health outcomes.

Her hard work and dedication have already begun to open new doors.

Following graduation, Pennerman was accepted into the Master of Health Science in Biomedical Science program at Grand Valley State University, where she plans to continue preparing for a future in healthcare, biomedical research, or medicine.

As she reflects on his journey, Pennerman sees 探花精选 as a place that helped her transform her passion for science into a clear professional purpose.

Her story serves as a powerful reminder that determination, mentorship, and opportunity can create pathways to success and inspire future generations of scientists and healthcare professionals.

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Nazir Imhotep: Excellence On the Track, In the Classroom, & Across Campus /nazir-imhotep-excellence-on-the-track-in-the-classroom-across-campus/ Mon, 15 Jun 2026 23:42:45 +0000 /?p=43885 Fall 2025 Graduate | Sport Management For Nazir Imhotep, Saint Augustine鈥檚 University provided opportunities to grow as a student, athlete, leader, and marketing professional. A native of Chesapeake, Virginia, Imhotep graduated with a degree in Sport Management after building an impressive record of achievement both inside and outside the classroom. One of the highlights of […]

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Fall 2025 Graduate | Sport Management

For Nazir Imhotep, Saint Augustine鈥檚 University provided opportunities to grow as a student, athlete, leader, and marketing professional.

A native of Chesapeake, Virginia, Imhotep graduated with a degree in Sport Management after building an impressive record of achievement both inside and outside the classroom.

One of the highlights of his 探花精选 experience was his time on the university鈥檚 track and field team.

Competing primarily in hurdle events, Imhotep trained under Olympic medalist and legendary coach Bershawn Jackson. The experience challenged him to elevate his performance while learning from one of the sport鈥檚 most accomplished competitors.

Among his proudest athletic memories was competing at the prestigious Razorback Invitational, where Saint Augustine鈥檚 University represented the only HBCU participating in the event.

鈥淚t was an honor to represent 探花精选 on that stage,鈥 he said.

Beyond athletics, Imhotep distinguished himself academically.

He maintained a GPA above 3.0 throughout his academic career, earned Dean鈥檚 List recognition, and received the university鈥檚 Meritorious Scholarship every semester he attended.

His passion for sports business and marketing also led him to participate in the Sport Management Department鈥檚 case study team. Alongside classmates, he traveled to Tampa, Florida, to present a sports marketing project at the Sports Marketing Association Conference.

The experience gave him valuable exposure to industry professionals and strengthened his confidence as an emerging sports business leader.

Imhotep鈥檚 impact extended beyond academics and athletics.

As Marketing Director for Residential Life, he created 鈥 探花精选 Cribs,鈥 a creative content series that showcases residence halls and highlights student life on campus.

The initiative helped build community engagement while allowing him to develop practical marketing and leadership skills.

Reflecting on his time at Saint Augustine鈥檚 University, Imhotep credits each experience with helping shape the person he is today.

Whether competing on the track, presenting case studies, earning academic honors, or building student engagement initiatives, he embraced every opportunity to grow.

His journey serves as a powerful example of what can happen when talent, discipline, and determination come together.

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Breann Bannister: A Mother鈥檚 Determination, A Teacher鈥檚 Calling /breann-bannister-a-mothers-determination-a-teachers-calling/ Sat, 13 Jun 2026 17:14:15 +0000 /?p=43882 For Breann Bannister, earning her degree from Saint Augustine鈥檚 University represents far more than completing a college program. It represents perseverance through some of life鈥檚 most difficult challenges and a tireless commitment to achieving her dream of becoming an educator. Originally from The Bahamas, Bannister began her educational journey with hope, ambition, and a vision […]

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For Breann Bannister, earning her degree from Saint Augustine鈥檚 University represents far more than completing a college program. It represents perseverance through some of life鈥檚 most difficult challenges and a tireless commitment to achieving her dream of becoming an educator.

Originally from The Bahamas, Bannister began her educational journey with hope, ambition, and a vision for her future. What followed would test her resilience in ways she never imagined.

During her pursuit of a degree in Elementary Education, Bannister became the mother of two children. While motherhood brought immense joy and purpose, it also required her to balance family responsibilities, financial pressures, and academic obligations simultaneously.

Like many new mothers, she faced challenges that were not always visible to others. After the birth of her children, she battled postpartum depression while continuing to pursue her educational goals.

鈥淭here were days when simply getting out of bed felt like an accomplishment,鈥 she reflected.

As she navigated motherhood and academics, another challenge emerged. Hurricane Dorian devastated her home region, creating uncertainty and disruption for her family and community. Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, which transformed higher education and daily life around the world.

Classes moved online. Isolation increased. The demands of parenting and academics intensified.

Yet Bannister refused to give up.

She attended classes while caring for her children, completed assignments late into the night, and remained focused on her long-term goal despite overwhelming obstacles.

鈥淢y children became my motivation,鈥 she said. 鈥淭hey reminded me every day why I started this journey.鈥

As graduation approached, yet another challenge appeared. Institutional uncertainties created questions about the future for many students nearing completion of their degrees.

During that difficult period, Bannister found support from faculty members who remained committed to student success.

She specifically credits Dr. M. Iyailu Moses for her encouragement and relentless belief in both her and 探花精选.

Today, Bannister proudly joins the ranks of 探花精选 graduates with an accredited degree in Elementary Education.

Her accomplishment represents not only academic success, but also resilience, faith, perseverance, and the determination to overcome adversity.

As she prepares for the next chapter of her career, Bannister hopes her story serves as a reminder that setbacks do not define a person鈥檚 future.

鈥淎gainst all odds, I finished what I started,鈥 she said.

As 探花精选鈥檚 Spring 2026 graduate, Bannister鈥檚 achievement serves as a powerful reminder that determination, faith, and perseverance continue to define the Falcon spirit.

And that achievement is a lesson she will carry with her for the rest of her life.

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探花精选 Takes Strategic Steps to Strengthen Its Future /sau-takes-strategic-steps-to-strengthen-its-future/ Tue, 28 Apr 2026 13:15:48 +0000 /?p=43871 Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) today announced a series of strategic actions to strengthen its financial foundation, address accreditation matters, and position the institution for long-term success. To support this work, the University will initiate a voluntary Chapter 11 restructuring process. This structured, court-supervised process will enable 探花精选 to organize its financial affairs in an orderly […]

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Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) today announced a series of strategic actions to strengthen its financial foundation, address accreditation matters, and position the institution for long-term success.

To support this work, the University will initiate a voluntary Chapter 11 restructuring process. This structured, court-supervised process will enable 探花精选 to organize its financial affairs in an orderly and transparent manner. The decision, made by the University鈥檚 Board of Trustees, reflects a deliberate and strategic step to advance the University鈥檚 long-term sustainability while addressing current financial realities.

The University will continue to operate throughout the process, and a plan of reorganization is being developed to be submitted to the Court outlining 探花精选鈥檚 path forward. 探花精选 enters this process with the support of its primary lending partner, Self-Help Ventures Fund, demonstrating confidence in the University鈥檚 future.

鈥淐hapter 11 provides a comprehensive path to address our financial challenges and move forward with a stronger foundation,鈥 the Board said.

The University also confirmed it will not continue litigation related to its accreditation status, which is expected to conclude effective May 15. After careful evaluation, the Board determined that continuing litigation would not be a prudent use of resources. 探花精选 will instead focus on supporting students through teach-out agreements, developing non-degree certificates and apprenticeship programs, and building a pathway toward reaccreditation. The institution reached this conclusion in cooperation with its accreditor, SACSCOC, to ensure impacted students were able to graduate from an accredited institution.

As part of this broader transition, Interim President Dr. Jennie Ward-Robinson has stepped down. The Board expresses its appreciation for her service and has appointed Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples to be Interim President.

探花精选 will work collaboratively with stakeholders, including creditors, donors, alumni, and community partners, to provide meaningful opportunities for supporters of the institution to contribute and play an active role in its continued progress and success.

These steps position the University to move forward with clarity and purpose, continuing its mission of preparing students academically, socially, and spiritually for leadership in a complex, diverse, and rapidly changing world.

Founded in 1867, 探花精选 remains deeply committed to its historic mission and to building a sustainable future.

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