鈥淭he achievements of Sandy Chapman, Dr. Johnelle Sherald, and Veronica Mack Cohen reflect the enduring legacy of leadership, service, and excellence that Saint Augustine鈥檚 University instills in its graduates,鈥� said 探花精选 Board of Trustees Chair Sophie Gibson. 鈥淭heir national recognition through UNCF not only celebrates their individual accomplishments but also underscores the profound impact 探花精选 alumni continue to make in strengthening our communities, advancing educational opportunity, and uplifting the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.鈥�

These honors highlight the enduring legacy of 探花精选 graduates who lead with excellence, service, and commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

鈥淭hese alumni represent the very best of 探花精选,鈥� said 探花精选 Interim President Dr. Jennie Ward-Robinson. 鈥淭heir national recognition through UNCF is a testament not only to their individual excellence but to the enduring power of an 探花精选 education rooted in service, leadership, and faith. We are immensely proud of their accomplishments and grateful for the example they continue to set for our students and alumni around the world.鈥�

Sandy Chapman 鈥�90 Inducted into UNCF Hall of Honor
Alumnus Sandy Chapman 鈥�90听received the prestigious Most Outstanding Alumni Award听and was inducted into the UNCF Hall of Honor, one of the organization鈥檚 highest distinctions.

The award recognizes alumni for exceptional dedication to their alma mater, community service, and steadfast support of UNCF鈥檚 mission.

A proud Falcon, Chapman consistently supports 探花精选 initiatives, builds alumni engagement, and leads with humility and integrity.

As part of the honor, Chapman鈥檚 portrait will be permanently displayed in the UNCF Hall of Honor in Washington, D.C., ensuring his legacy endures.

Dr. Johnelle L. Sherald 鈥�76 Receives 2026 NAA Presidents鈥� Cabinet Chairman鈥檚 Award
National Alumni Association of 探花精选 President Dr. Johnelle L. Sherald 鈥�76听was recognized as one of five recipients of the 2026 NAA Presidents鈥� Cabinet Chairman鈥檚 Award.

The award honors exceptional dedication, leadership, and service among National Alumni Association Presidents representing UNCF member institutions.

The UNCF National Alumni Council, founded in 1946, supports and strengthens Historically Black Colleges and Universities by promoting best practices and advancing student success. The NAA Presidents鈥� Cabinet includes leaders from 37 UNCF member institutions and serves as a vital network advancing fundraising and institutional leadership initiatives.

Dr. Sherald鈥檚 recognition highlights her leadership and advocacy for 探花精选鈥檚 alumni community.

Veronica Mack Cohen 鈥�77 Named 2026 UNCF Pre-Alumni Council Advisor of the Year
Alumna Veronica Mack Cohen 鈥�77听was honored with the 2026 UNCF Pre-Alumni Council Advisor of the Year Award, recognizing her decades of dedication to student leadership, professional development, and alumni engagement.

As Pre-Alumni Council Advisor at Claflin University in Orangeburg, South Carolina, Cohen has consistently mentored students and ensured their active participation in national UNCF initiatives, including the Miss UNCF Coronation and leadership conferences. Many of her mentees have gone on to serve in national leadership roles within the UNCF Pre-Alumni Council.

In addition to her work with students, Cohen is a Life Member of the National Alumni Association of 探花精选 and serves as its Financial Secretary on the Executive Board, further demonstrating her lifelong commitment to the university.

A Legacy of Leadership and Service
These national recognitions underscore the profound impact of 探花精选 alumni across the UNCF network and beyond. From national leadership to student mentorship, 探花精选 Falcons continue to exemplify service, excellence, and commitment to advancing educational opportunity.

探花精选 and the National Alumni Association extend heartfelt congratulations to Sandy Chapman 鈥�90, Dr. Johnelle L. Sherald 鈥�76, and Veronica Mack Cohen 鈥�77 for their outstanding achievements and continued dedication to the mission of UNCF and 探花精选.

听to learn more about the National Alumni Association of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University
听to learn more about the UNCF National Alumni Council

听

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鈥淒r. Prezell Robinson鈥檚 legacy is woven into the very foundation of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University,鈥� said 探花精选 Board of Trustees Chair Sophie Gibson. 鈥淔or nearly three decades, his visionary leadership strengthened this institution and expanded opportunity for generations of students. We are honored to celebrate his extraordinary life and the enduring example he continues to set for the 探花精选 community.鈥�

Dr. Robinson, now 105 years old, served as the eighth president of 探花精选 from 1967 to 1995, guiding the institution through nearly three decades of growth and national recognition. His leadership prepared generations of students for leadership and service.

鈥淒r. Prezell Robinson鈥檚 leadership helped shape 探花精选 into the institution that so many generations of students proudly call their alma mater,鈥� said 探花精选 Interim President Dr. Jennie Ward-Robinson. 鈥淗is life is a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of education and the enduring role historically Black colleges and universities play in advancing opportunity, leadership, and service.鈥�

The celebration not only brought together elected officials, alumni leaders, and Raleigh community members but also served as a significant tribute to Dr. Robinson鈥檚 lasting impact on Saint Augustine鈥檚 University and the city he shaped.

鈥淭his is where we live. This is where we were born,鈥� said 探花精选 alumna Ms. Octavia Rainey, 鈥�78, community activist and organizer of the event. 鈥淪o, we pay tribute to our neighborhood. We pay tribute to our business. We pay tribute to our churches and, of course, to Saint Augustine鈥檚 University.鈥�

Among those offering tributes were U.S. Congresswoman Deborah Ross, NC Senator Dan Blue, Wake County Commissioner Tara Waters, Raleigh City Council members Corey Branch and Stormie Forte, and Shaw University President Dr. Paulette R. Dillard, who recognized Dr. Robinson鈥檚 contributions to education, civic leadership, and the advancement of opportunity in North Carolina. A message on behalf of 探花精选 Interim President Dr. Jennie Ward-Robinson was presented during the event, recognizing Dr. Robinson鈥檚 enduring legacy.

The program also featured reflections from the 探花精选 Class of 1975, and Ms. JeSanne Robinson Johnson, ’88, an alumna and the daughter of Dr. Robinson, gave personal remarks honoring her father鈥檚 dedication to education and his lifelong commitment to uplifting students through learning.

鈥淲hen people ask me about my father, they often talk about his accomplishments, nearly three decades he served as President of Saint Augustine鈥檚, the academic programs he expanded, the buildings he modernized, and the accreditation he strengthened,鈥� Johnson said. 鈥淎ll of that is true, and it matters deeply, but today they ask him, and I’m proud to say, how is he doing? And he’s doing great for 105.鈥�

Dr. Robinson鈥檚 story is deeply intertwined with Saint Augustine鈥檚 University. After joining the faculty, he rose through the ranks to become president, serving one of the longest tenures in university history. His leadership reinforced 探花精选鈥檚 mission of preparing students for lives of purpose and impact.

As 探花精选 builds on its tradition of leadership and service, Dr. Robinson鈥檚 life remains a testament to the lasting power of education and the vital significance of historically Black colleges and universities.

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Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) today affirmed a renewed standard of leadership, accountability, and stewardship as the University prepares for the 2026鈥�2027 academic year. At a time when the protection of 探花精选鈥檚 mission, legacy, and future requires focused and disciplined governance, the 鈥攗nder the leadership of Sophie Gibson, Chair of the Board of Trustees and the first woman in 探花精选鈥檚 history to hold that position鈥攈as taken deliberate actions to strengthen governance, ensure leadership continuity, and establish a clear framework for institutional renewal grounded in responsibility, transparency, and long-term sustainability.

鈥� 探花精选 has taken meaningful steps to strengthen governance, institutional leadership, and planning,鈥� said Sophie Gibson, Chair of the Board of Trustees. 鈥淲e are building a Board with the experience and discipline required for this moment. Our focus is on restoring stability, rebuilding trust, and positioning 探花精选 for sustainable success. We welcome continued engagement from our students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, faith partners, community leaders, institutional partners, and supporters of all kinds as we work together to secure a strong future for this historic institution.鈥�

Over the past months, the Board of Trustees has implemented governance enhancements designed to improve accountability, financial oversight, and strategic leadership. These actions include the addition of trustees with expertise in finance, higher education administration, organizational leadership, and institutional transformation鈥攃apabilities aligned with the University鈥檚 current operational and strategic priorities.

As part of this renewed direction, the Board has articulated a vision to reestablish Saint Augustine鈥檚 University as a model for effective board鈥損resident collaboration, underscoring the role of strong governance structures in supporting institutional stability, accountability, and long-term success.

In December, the Board of Trustees appointed Dr. Jennie Ward-Robinson as Interim President to ensure executive leadership continuity during a period of institutional transition. The Board continues to exercise its fiduciary and governance oversight responsibilities as the University advances its recovery and renewal efforts.

Saint Augustine鈥檚 University remains operational and accredited. Remote classes began on January 14, and academic programs and essential student services continue without interruption. Protecting academic continuity, maintaining accreditation, and ensuring students can progress toward degree completion remain core institutional priorities.

As part of its recovery strategy, 探花精选 leadership is advancing comprehensive financial stabilization measures and a long-term sustainability plan with support from Self-Help, a financial partner, as well as additional institutional, financial, and advisory partners providing assistance across financial, operational, and strategic areas. These partnerships are focused on strengthening internal financial systems, improving operational controls, and laying a foundation for long-term institutional health. As a matter of University policy, 探花精选 does not comment on specific financial transactions, loan terms, or creditor negotiations.

Board leadership emphasized that the actions underway represent an important turning point for Saint Augustine鈥檚 University鈥攐ne grounded in transparency, responsible stewardship, and a renewed commitment to serving students and preserving and strengthening 探花精选鈥檚 159-year legacy.

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Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) proudly announces a generous $25,000 donation from the in support of the university鈥檚 Falcon Pride Initiative鈥攁 movement uniting alumni, community leaders, and partners in sustaining 探花精选鈥檚 historic mission of academic excellence, faith, and service.

This meaningful contribution was made possible through the leadership of Senator Paul Lowe, Chairman of the NCLBCF, and the advocacy of Senator Dan Blue, whose continued support underscores the university鈥檚 lasting importance to the city of Raleigh and the state of North Carolina.

鈥淲e are deeply grateful to the North Carolina Legislative Black Caucus Foundation, Chairman Senator Paul Lowe, and Senator Dan Blue for their unwavering belief in Saint Augustine鈥檚 University,鈥� said Dr. Verjanis Peoples, Interim President of 探花精选. 鈥淭his gift is a powerful reminder that 探花精选鈥檚 legacy of educating leaders and transforming communities still matters and is worth fighting for鈥攁nd that our mission continues to inspire confidence across North Carolina and beyond. We invite alumni, partners, and friends to stand with us as we move forward with faith, purpose, and Falcon Pride.鈥�

Founded in 1867 by the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, Saint Augustine鈥檚 University has long stood as a beacon of opportunity, leadership, and hope. Today, the Falcon Pride Initiative continues that legacy by engaging supporters to ensure the university鈥檚 ability to educate future generations, empower students, and remain a positive cornerstone of the Raleigh community.

The university continues to welcome contributions to the Falcon Pride Initiative, which supports scholarships, student success, and institutional sustainability.

Click here to join the movement by supporting 探花精选鈥檚 Falcon Pride Initiative.

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鈥淭hese victories remind us that the mission of Saint Augustine鈥檚 University lives far beyond our campus,鈥� said Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples, Interim President of 探花精选. 鈥淥ur alumni are leaders, change agents, and bridge builders. We are incredibly proud of Mr. Bussey and Mayor Foushee for their continued commitment to serve their communities with excellence and integrity.鈥�

Grady Bussey, a member of the Class of 1996, was elected to the Knightdale Town Council, bringing decades of experience in youth development, public service, and community advocacy to the growing Wake County community. A proud Knightdale resident and longtime servant leader, Bussey has been a tireless champion for programs that empower young people and foster inclusive growth in eastern Wake County.

In a , that engaged over 1,200 followers, Bussey’s response was simple鈥�”We won!!”

Barbara Middleton Foushee, Class of 1986, was , after previously serving on the Carrboro Town Council. Foushee is a lifelong public servant and social justice advocate whose leadership has elevated equity and inclusion in Orange County. Her re-election affirms the community鈥檚 trust in her vision for a more just and vibrant Carrboro.

“I’m just very proud of the race we ran here in Carrboro,”听Foushee听said 听“I had an amazing team behind me, lots of community support, and I’m just ready to continue the work.”

As 探花精选 continues to navigate its own transformation, the achievements of these alumni reflect the institution鈥檚 lasting contributions to public service and civic engagement across North Carolina and beyond.

Click here to support 探花精选’s Falcon Pride Initiative.
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Through this initiative, 探花精选 will receive a $5 million endowment stake from UNCF. The institution will work with UNCF to raise an additional $5 million in matching funds, creating a $10 million endowment that will be managed in perpetuity. These pooled funds will make annual distributions at a 4% payout rate, providing long-term financial stability and greater opportunities for 探花精选 students.

鈥淭his transformational investment affirms the critical role that 探花精选 plays in higher education and will allow us to expand opportunities for our students, strengthen our academic programs, and build permanent resources for the future,鈥� said 探花精选 Interim President Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples. 鈥淲e are proud to work alongside UNCF to raise the matching funds that will double this impact on our institution.鈥�

The $70 million gift from MacKenzie Scott brings UNCF significantly closer to its goal of raising $370 million for the pooled endowment, a critical component of its broader $1 billion capital campaign. Once matched, the initiative will increase the median endowment of UNCF-member institutions by 63%, addressing the stark disparity between HBCU and non-HBCU endowments.

鈥淭his extraordinary gift is a powerful vote of confidence in HBCUs and in the work of UNCF,鈥� said Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of UNCF. 鈥淚t provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity for our member institutions to build permanent assets that will support students and campuses for decades to come.鈥�

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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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鈥淲e have made substantial progress and are confident that our strengthened financial position and governance will ensure a positive outcome,鈥� said Board of Trustees Chairman Brian Boulware. 鈥� 探花精选 is resilient, and we are resolute in our commitment to academic excellence.鈥�

While this outcome was not what 探花精选 had hoped for, it is essential to clarify that this decision does not mean 探花精选 is closing. 探花精选 remains fully operational and committed to its students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the community.

What This Means for 探花精选 Students and the Community

• May 2025 graduates will receive degrees from an accredited institution.听
• 探花精选 will continue serving students.听The university remains dedicated to providing high-quality education and student support services as it evaluates all available pathways forward.
• 探花精选 has secured long-term financial sustainability.听The university has secured up to $70 million in sustainability-focused funding at competitive market rates and terms, and the closing is anticipated later this month.听NOTE:听General practice non-disclosure agreements prevent 探花精选 from publicly disclosing the partners’ names.

The Path Forward: Exploring Arbitration and Confirming 探花精选鈥檚 Funding

Per SACSCOC鈥檚 arbitration policy, 探花精选 has the right to pursue binding arbitration to contest the accreditation decision. Arbitration allows 探花精选 to demonstrate its financial stability and commitment to compliance with accreditation standards.

鈥淭his funding is a game-changer,鈥� said Vice Chairman Hadley Evans. 鈥淲e now have the financial leverage to protect 探花精选鈥檚 legacy, enhance academic offerings, and create sustainable revenue streams through strategic campus development.鈥�

Financial Strength and Strategic Planning

The bridge loan of up to $70 million provides 探花精选 with the financial resources to eliminate past debt, invest in campus improvements, and implement its long-term strategic plan.

鈥淭his decision does not define us鈥攐ur resilience does,鈥� said Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. 鈥淲e urge our alumni and supporters to stand with 探花精选 as we strengthen our foundation and ensure our mission continues for generations.鈥�

Preparing for the Next Generation of 探花精选 Students

As 探花精选 moves forward, it is focused on welcoming the next generation of students in Fall 2025. The university is actively enhancing its academic programs, campus infrastructure, and student support initiatives to create an even stronger learning environment.

鈥淭he funds we have secured provide a bright future for the students coming in now and for generations to come,鈥� said Trustee Sophie Gibson. 鈥� 探花精选 is not just sustaining itself; we are building a foundation for future Falcons to thrive.鈥�

A Call for Support: 探花精选鈥檚 Strength is in its Community

As 探花精选 enters its next chapter, the university asks alumni, corporate partners, and the Raleigh community to support its future.

鈥淭his is the beginning of a new chapter,鈥� said Vice President of Business Administration and COO Mark Yates. 探花精选 is taking control of its future through strategic financial management and bold leadership.鈥�

Click here听for more information on 探花精选鈥檚 next steps.

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The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) removed the HBCU鈥檚 membership following significant financial issues, including a $32 million debt and an IRS battle.

(Mitti Hicks/BLACK ENTERPRISE) 鈥撯�揑t鈥檚 been a challenging few years for听 In December 2022, Saint Augustine’s University was placed on probation after failing to meet accreditation standards. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) removed the HBCU鈥檚 membership following significant financial issues, including

But the HBCU is inching one step closer to the light at the end of the tunnel after the 听invested $70 million to save the university.听

鈥淲e were introduced to the University back in October, and from that very first moment, our first statement was that we wanted to help the university keep its land and be self-sufficient,鈥� Monti Valrie, founder and CEO of 50 Plus 1 Sports, tells BLACK ENTERPRISE.

听for contact information for the NC Attorney General鈥檚 Office.
听for contact information for the NC Governor鈥檚 Office.

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