25 Inspiring Seniors from St. Augustine’s University Graduate, Showcasing Resilience and Triumph Over HBCU Challenges

RALEIGH, N.C. — Last Saturday, the community of Saint Augustine’s University celebrated the graduation of 25 seniors. This gathering was particularly meaningful given the school’s financial challenges and accreditation struggles.

LeMonte’ Quarles, 54, was among the graduates. After 25 years working in corrections, he returned to school to achieve his dream of earning a degree in criminal justice. A legacy student, LeMonte’ shared, “My mother graduated from St. Aug’s in 1967, and my brother went there too. It’s always been my dream to finish.”

In the days leading up to graduation, some students, including Quarles, faced uncertainty about participating due to unpaid balances. Fortunately, a generous donation of over $132,000 from a church in Alexandria, Virginia, allowed 11 seniors to graduate without financial worry. “When we got the news, I was thrilled,” said Quarles. “My wife was jumping for joy!”

LeMonte’ is eager to use his degree to teach at a community college once he retires.

Another graduate, Tillia Leary, the student government association president, also celebrated her achievement. Originally from the Bahamas, she was surrounded by over 30 family members who came to support her. Graduating with degrees in accounting and business administration, she plans to pursue her master’s at Ball State University. “Today feels overwhelming, but I’m really grateful,” Leary expressed.

Both Leary and Quarles faced a challenging path to graduation, especially as Saint Augustine’s shifted to online classes in spring 2024 due to operational difficulties. Leary remarked, “We didn’t know if we would be here today, but we made it through with support from everyone at St. Aug’s.”

The ceremony also honored the university’s Golden Class, celebrating alumni from 50 years ago. This nod emphasizes the lasting pride and legacy within the Falcon community. Founded in 1867, Saint Augustine’s has a rich history in Raleigh. While its future may be uncertain, students and alumni are united in their commitment to the university’s legacy.

“I hope it continues for my grandkids and others to experience what we have,” Quarles added, reflecting the deep bonds of community and commitment to education that define Saint Augustine’s University.

For more on the current state of higher education and its challenges, see reports from NPR and The Chronicle of Higher Education.

Source link

priority , 16313099