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.

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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�

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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.

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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�

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Click here听to explore available programs and enrollment information.

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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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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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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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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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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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Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) announced today that it has successfully secured a preliminary injunction to maintain the university鈥檚 accreditation, ensuring that classes will begin on September 2, 2025, as scheduled, with 探花精选 remaining a fully accredited institution. The injunction, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia on August 14 and granted this week, prevents any disruption to 探花精选鈥檚 accreditation status while the university continues its legal challenge to the recent accrediting body鈥檚 decision. This development ensures that current and incoming students can proceed with confidence into the Fall 2025 semester, knowing that an accredited university will recognize their education and degrees.

The filing of the preliminary injunction was made possible by the overwhelming support of the 探花精选 community. In particular, the National Alumni Association of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University contributed a pivotal donation of $100,000 鈥� funds that covered the filing of the preliminary injunction 鈥� and several individual alumni and supporters stepped forward with generous contributions to bolster 探花精选鈥檚 legal efforts.

鈥淲e are immensely grateful for the outpouring of support from our alumni and friends. Their commitment ensured we had the resources to take this crucial legal step to protect our students and our mission,鈥� said Sophie L. Gibson, the newly appointed Chair of the 探花精选 Board of Trustees. 鈥淭his injunction is not just a legal reprieve; it is a testament to the power of the Falcon community. It allows us to continue educating our students without interruption as we vigorously defend 探花精选鈥檚 future in court, and it shows that we soar higher when we soar together. We remain steadfast in our mission to provide education grounded in integrity, faith, and excellence 鈥� now with renewed optimism that 探花精选鈥檚 accreditation and legacy will endure.鈥�

What This Means
Under the protection of the preliminary injunction, 探花精选 will remain accredited and operational as legal proceedings continue. The university鈥檚 lawsuit, filed against the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), seeks to overturn the decision that would remove 探花精选 from membership. The injunction ensures that 探花精选鈥檚 accreditation is safeguarded during this process, meaning students can enroll, receive financial aid, and continue their studies with complete confidence that their degrees will be accredited while the case is underway. In addition, the injunction provides 探花精选 with time to present its case and pursue alternative accreditation avenues if necessary, all while students鈥� education continues uninterrupted.

鈥淭his is a tremendous win for Saint Augustine鈥檚 University and, most importantly, for our students,鈥� said 探花精选 Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. 鈥淭hanks to our supporters, we will open our (virtual) doors on September 2 as an accredited institution, just as we promised. We have said all along that we will stop at nothing to maintain our accreditation and continue serving our scholars 鈥� and we meant it. Our faculty and staff are fully prepared to begin the semester, and our commitment to providing an uninterrupted, high-quality education remains stronger than ever. We are deeply thankful to every alum, donor, and friend who stepped up to make this possible. Your support has been a beacon of hope for 探花精选 during this challenging time.鈥�

Historic Leadership Transition
The 探花精选 Board of Trustees announces a leadership transition with heartfelt gratitude to outgoing Board Chair Mr. Brian A. Boulware 鈥�95. After years of committed leadership and in light of increasing professional engagements, Mr. Boulware has chosen to step down from the Chair role, confident in the strong foundation now in place for 探花精选鈥檚 future. He will continue to serve as a valued Trustee, offering his insight and steadfast support. Under Mr. Boulware鈥檚 leadership as Board Chairman, the university completed four years of overdue financial audits, restored employee payroll and benefits, implemented stronger accountability measures, and secured critical funds to sustain the institution鈥檚 mission.

鈥淚t has been a privilege to serve as Chair of this historic institution during a time of great challenge and transformation,鈥� said Trustee Boulware. 鈥淚 am proud of the work we have accomplished together and confident in the leadership of Chair Gibson and the Board to guide 探花精选 into a bright future.鈥�

Building on this momentum, the Board is pleased to welcome a new leadership team. Ms. Sophie L. Gibson, of Atlanta, GA, has been appointed Chair of the Board of Trustees, effective August 15, 2025, marking the first time a woman has held this role in 探花精选鈥檚 history.

鈥淲e are deeply grateful for the steady leadership of Trustee Boulware during challenging times,鈥� said Chair Sophie Gibson. 鈥淗is leadership as Chairman played a pivotal role in protecting the legacy and future of 探花精选. As we move into this new chapter, we honor their contributions while embracing a bold, strategic path forward that will strengthen our impact for generations to come.鈥�

Serving alongside her as Vice Chair is Ms. V. Lynette Mitchell 鈥�89, of Williamstown, NJ, marking the first time that women have both top Board positions. This historic transition reflects the University鈥檚 commitment to inclusive leadership and continued excellence. With a strong foundation in place, 探花精选 looks forward to reaching new heights under the guidance of Ms. Gibson and Ms. Mitchell as they lead the University into its next chapter of success.

鈥淎s an 探花精选 alumna and now Vice Chair of the Board, I am deeply committed to seeing our beloved institution thrive,鈥� said Trustee Mitchell. 鈥淲e are turning the page to an exciting new era for 探花精选 鈥� one guided by a clear strategic direction and a renewed Falcon spirit. Our alumni and supporters have shown incredible faith in this University 鈥� from rallying around our legal efforts to investing in our students 鈥� and that support will continue to be crucial. Together, we will ensure that Saint Augustine鈥檚 University not only survives, but truly flourishes in the years ahead.鈥�

A Call for Support
As 探花精选 moves forward, the university calls on its community to maintain the momentum. Continued support is vital to sustain the legal fight and to ensure a successful Fall 2025 term. 探花精选 encourages all supporters to contribute to the ongoing efforts by visiting the Believe in 探花精选: A Falcon Is Not an Ordinary Bird donation campaign on the university鈥檚 website. This portal offers options to contribute to both immediate operational needs and the legal defense fund. Every contribution 鈥� no matter the size 鈥� brings 探花精选 one step closer to a lasting victory in securing its future.

For those who wish to make in-kind contributions specifically toward legal expenses, university donors can make arrangements to give directly to 探花精选鈥檚 attorneys,, to support the university鈥檚 legal fund.

By channeling support either through 探花精选鈥檚 donation page or directly to the legal team, friends of the university can actively help 鈥�Believe in 探花精选鈥� and sustain its mission.

听for more information on 探花精选鈥檚 SACSCOC Updates.
听to support the Falcon Pride Initiative.

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鈥淭hese outstanding young scholars reflect the very soul of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University鈥攐ne rooted in resilience, excellence, and the pursuit of purpose,鈥� said 探花精选 Interim President听Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. 鈥淭hey are living proof that our challenges do not define 探花精选, but by the greatness we nurture in our students.鈥�

Israel Pennerman, a senior Public Health Science major, and听Karly Heavens Gerome, a rising junior Engineering Mathematics major, have been selected as听Summer 2025 Research Scholars听at听North Carolina State University鈥檚 College of Natural Resources. These students previously participated in the听National Science Foundation鈥檚 Biomanufacturing Sciences Pilot Program and, in the Fall of 2024, visited Grand Valley State University to explore graduate STEM programs. Karly also completed a biomaterials research experience at NC State in the Summer of 2024. He recently participated in a two-week Quantitative Biology program at听Virginia Tech, focusing on experimental modeling and computation in biosystems.

Ashauna McClendon, a Biology major, was selected as a member of the of the听Duke Building Academic Advancement Research Training Pathway to Otolaryngology and Communication Sciences (BAA-POCS). Funded by the听National Institutes of Health, the 15-month program includes two intensive summer research experiences at Duke University and hybrid training during the academic year. Ashauna joins only two other students nationwide in this prestigious program, designed to diversify the future biomedical workforce.

Adding to this remarkable list is听Tyler Miller, an Engineering Mathematics major and NSF VA鈥揘C LSAMP Alliance STEM Scholar, who received acceptance into the听Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) 鈥� NC10 Science Education Alliance Summer 2025 Program听at听North Carolina Central University. Tyler is engaging in hands-on research in molecular biology and genomics. He previously attended the听Clayton Evans Memorial Lecture and Outreach Program听at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He visited Grand Valley State University in the Fall of 2024 to explore graduate study options in STEM.

鈥淭hese students continue to open doors for themselves and 探花精选 by stepping into prestigious research opportunities and advancing the university鈥檚 legacy in STEM,鈥� said听Dr. Tyrell Carr,听Associate Dean,听School of Sciences, Mathematics, and Allied Health, and Director of Sponsored Programs and Title III Programs. 鈥淭heir accomplishments are testaments to what鈥檚 possible through mentorship, perseverance, and hard work.鈥�

While external narratives have often focused on crisis, 探花精选鈥檚 students remind us of the powerful story still unfolding鈥攁 story of hope, scholarship, and transformation. These are the voices that will shape tomorrow.

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鈥淭his year鈥檚 commencement is more than a ceremony鈥攊t is a declaration of our resilience, faith, and relentless commitment to transform lives,鈥� said 探花精选 Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. 鈥淲e are proud of each graduate and deeply grateful to every partner and supporter who continues to believe in Saint Augustine鈥檚 University and its enduring mission.鈥�

探花精选 alumnus, The Rev. Dr. Allen F. Robinson, 鈥�92, Rector of Grace Church, Brooklyn Heights, will deliver the keynote address. Special musical guests, 探花精选 alumnus Marcel Anderson, 鈥�08, acclaimed Neo Soul and Jazz artist, and alumna Monique Lipsey, 鈥�04, celebrated gospel singer and author, will lend their powerful voices to this year鈥檚 celebration.

In a remarkable show of academic excellence,听half of 探花精选鈥檚 student body, including members of the Class of 2025, earned Dean鈥檚 List honors during the Spring and Fall 2024 semesters, resulting in the third consecutive semester of academic excellence. Their achievements are a testament to the tireless commitment of 探花精选鈥檚 students, faculty, and staff during a pivotal time in the university鈥檚 history.

Student Highlights:

This year鈥檚 graduating class includes stories of hope, perseverance, and excellence:

• Cameron Moore (Business Administration major)听鈥� A Presidential Scholar with a 3.83 GPA, Moore excelled academically and professionally, securing multiple internships at Deloitte and earning acceptance into High Point University鈥檚 MBA program.
• Naseem Sharpe (Psychology major)听鈥� A Washington, D.C. native, Sharpe blossomed as a student leader and artist, serving as Section Leader of the Superior Sound Marching Band, member of the Chamber Singers, and mentor through dance and cultural empowerment programs.
• LeMonte’ Quarles (Criminal Justice major)听鈥� At 54 years old, Quarles returned to complete a lifelong dream inspired by a 25-year career in corrections. He plans to teach Criminal Justice at a community college after retirement.
• Tillia Leary (Accounting major, School of Business, Management & Technology)听鈥� Originally from The Bahamas, Leary served as Student Government Association President, Miss School of Business, and a proud Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. member. A Chapel Scholar and Dean鈥檚 List honoree, she will attend Ball State University to complete her master鈥檚 degree in accounting. She has also been honored to receive numerous scholarships to support her graduate studies.
• Steven Judd (Religious Studies major)听鈥� Diagnosed with ADHD while enrolled, Judd overcame academic challenges, earning Dean鈥檚 List, Provost鈥檚 List, and President鈥檚 List honors before graduating at age 54 with deep gratitude to 探花精选鈥檚 dedicated faculty.

These reflections exemplify the strength, character, and future leadership that 探花精选 continues to cultivate.

A Gift of Hope:

Thanks to the generosity of Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, and the advocacy of 探花精选 alums Gilbert, ’76 and Carolyn Knowles, ’77, the student account balances for the graduating class of 2025 were fully covered鈥攅nsuring that these determined scholars could walk across the stage debt-free and ready for their following chapters.

Meet Our Distinguished Guests:

• 听Rev. Dr. Robinson is the Rector of Grace Church, Brooklyn Heights, an 探花精选 alumnus who earned his Master of Divinity from Virginia Theological Seminary and Doctor of Ministry from Fuller Theological Seminary. A passionate preacher, teacher, and community leader, Rev. Robinson represents the excellence and global impact of 探花精选 alumni.
• 听A Neo Soul, R&B, and Jazz artist whose powerful vocals and inspirational music have captivated audiences nationwide.
• 听A North Carolina native, Lipsey is a singer, worship leader, and author of two poetry collections. She has shared stages with prominent gospel artists and will release her newest single, 鈥淕ive Him Praise,鈥澨�on May 2, 2025.

How to Support 探花精选:

Friends, alumni, and supporters who wish to help sustain the future of 探花精选 and its extraordinary students are encouraged to give to the听

听for more information about the 2025 探花精选 commencement ceremony.
听to help support future generations of 探花精选 students and invest in their success.

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The post 探花精选 Celebrates Resilient Graduates at 2025 Commencement Ceremony appeared first on Saint Augustine's University.

In total, 365 full-time students received recognition on the Dean鈥檚 List for the Spring 2024 semester, and 85 full-time students earned Dean鈥檚 List honors for the Fall 2024 semester. The academic distinction did not stop there鈥�292 full-time students achieved Provost鈥檚 List honors for Spring and Fall 2024, while 125 students earned a spot on the President鈥檚 List during the same time frame. An additional 50 scholar-athletes were honored for balancing rigorous academic standards with athletic commitments.

鈥淭hese results tell a remarkable story of persistence, excellence, and community spirit,鈥� said 探花精选 Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. 鈥淭hrough every challenge, our students have demonstrated a level of resilience that gives us all great hope for the future鈥攏ot only for Saint Augustine鈥檚 but for the communities and industries our graduates will serve.鈥�

As of the current Spring 2025 semester, 47 full-time students earned Provost鈥檚 List honors, and 31 students achieved President鈥檚 List recognition. Notably, half of 探花精选鈥檚 student body has earned Dean鈥檚 List honors for the third consecutive semester, a powerful testament to the university鈥檚 tireless commitment to academic excellence despite challenges.

鈥淭hese achievements are a testament to the hard work of our students and the support and dedication of our faculty and staff,鈥� said Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. 鈥淲e proudly celebrate their successes and reaffirm 探花精选鈥檚 mission of preparing ethical leaders and changemakers.鈥�

In addition to celebrating academic honors, 探花精选 is proud to recognize three outstanding seniors who have earned top honors within their respective schools:

• School of Arts, Social Sciences & Communications: J鈥檔iyah Love (Criminal Justice)
• School of Business, Management & Technology: Cameron Moore (Business Administration)
• School of Science, Mathematics & Allied Health: K鈥橲hundra Holley (Public Health Science)

These students will cross the stage during 探花精选鈥檚 2025 Commencement and 94th Baccalaureate Exercises on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Wake Chapel Church鈥檚 Life Enrichment Center in Raleigh, NC.

This academic success comes when 探花精选 prepares for a resurgence fueled by the spirit, faith, and fortitude of its students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters.

Click here for a complete list of 探花精选 students receiving academic honors for the Spring 2024 and Fall 2024 semesters.
 for more information about 探花精选 and to support current and future Falcons through the Falcon Pride Initiative.

The post 探花精选 Recognizes Outstanding Academic Excellence Across 2024-2025 Academic Year appeared first on Saint Augustine's University.