Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) can start its fall semester after a court decided to pause the loss of its accreditation. The private HBCU in Raleigh had struggled financially and lost its accreditation in July. This is critical since accreditation allows schools to provide federal financial aid.
To contest the revocation, SAU turned to the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia. The court granted a preliminary injunction, meaning SAU can continue operating while the legal battle unfolds. “This is a tremendous win for Saint Augustine’s University and, most importantly, for our students,” said interim President Marcus Burgess.
Funds from the National Alumni Association and other alumni helped with the legal costs, but the university still faces significant financial challenges. Shortly after losing its accreditation, SAU revealed it needed $1 million to fund its lawsuit against its former accreditor, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Legal battles over accreditation can take years. During this time, SAU may seek new accreditation from the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS), which has different requirements. However, SAU must still show it is financially stable. As of mid-July, the university’s debts surpassed $47 million, and it is dealing with a $20 million judgment related to a vendor.
Amid these challenges, the university admitted 127 students for the fall semester, but enrollment trends have been concerning. Previous spring numbers showed around 50 students. As of September 2, classes will start online due to ongoing facility concerns.
A significant leadership change has also taken place: Brian Boulware, the board chair, is stepping down. He remains a trustee, but the board is now led by Sophie Gibson. Boulware faced criticism from alumni, with some accusing him of mismanagement. He has stated that financial mismanagement by SAU’s administration took place for over a decade, largely without the board’s knowledge.
Having faced lawsuits and personal financial disputes, Boulware believes that he can now step down, indicating that the university has reached a more stable point. “After years of committed leadership and in light of increasing professional engagements, Mr. Boulware has chosen to step down, confident in the strong foundation now in place for SAU’s future,” noted the university’s statement.
This situation reflects broader challenges in higher education, especially for historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). According to a recent report from the United Negro College Fund, nearly 80% of HBCUs have faced financial difficulties due to declining enrollments and funding cuts—factors that continue to impact their stability and growth.
As SAU navigates these waters, its future will depend on securing new funding, accreditation, and maintaining its student body in the face of these challenges.
