Saint Augustine’s University leaders say the HBCU is are moving into a new phase of governance and financial planning. The Raleigh HBCU continues to navigate a multi-year crisis tied to declining finances and an ongoing accreditation fight.
Saint Augustine’s University said its Board of Trustees—led by chair Sophie Gibson, t—has taken “deliberate actions” to strengthen oversight and set a framework for renewal ahead of the 2026–2027 academic year.
HBCU experienced several turbulent years
The announcement comes after several turbulent years for Saint Augustine’s University. This including heightened scrutiny from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). SACSCOC placed the University on probation in December 2022, citing multiple financial standards. Reports mounted of instability that included difficulties meeting obligations.
In late 2023, SACSCOC voted to remove SAU from membership, prompting an appeal and arbitration process that briefly altered the trajectory. But the dispute intensified again in 2024 and 2025 as the school sought to demonstrate financial controls and long-term viability. WUNC reported that continued financial instability was a driving factor in the accreditor’s actions and referenced significant outstanding obligations…