探花精选

Saint Augustine鈥檚 University ( 探花精选) remains steadfast in its mission to serve students and the Raleigh community following the decision by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) Appeals Committee to affirm the December 2024 decision to remove the university from membership. 探花精选 will now pursue a 90-day arbitration process to ensure that all students graduating through May 2025 will earn degrees from an accredited university.

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.聽
• 探花精选 will continue serving students.聽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.聽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.聽NOTE:聽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聽for more information on 探花精选鈥檚 next steps.