Episcopal University Stripped Of Accreditation
Saint Augustine’s University (SAU), a historically Black institution in North Carolina affiliated with The Episcopal Church, is at risk of losing its accreditation once again. The university announced that its appeal to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to reverse the decision to revoke its accreditation was unsuccessful. Nevertheless, SAU is now entering a 90-day arbitration period, during which it will remain operational, and students set to graduate in May will still earn degrees from an accredited institution.
During this period, the university plans to show its financial stability and dedication to meeting accreditation standards. SAU also revealed it is negotiating a $70 million bridge loan from an undisclosed donor to help address its ongoing financial struggles. This loan is expected to help stabilize the university’s finances and improve its outlook for the future.
Founded in 1867, SAU has faced significant financial challenges in recent years, which have hindered its ability to maintain accreditation. In December 2023, the SACSCOC board voted to revoke its accreditation due to concerns over the university’s financial health. Despite this, SAU has taken steps to address its issues, such as shifting most of its courses to online formats and reducing staff as part of cost-saving measures.
The university has also faced additional difficulties, including an investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor over unpaid employee wages. Even after making staff cuts, SAU was unable to retain its accreditation. While the revocation decision from SACSCOC stands, the university is now hopeful that the arbitration process may lead to a reversal and the restoration of its accreditation.
The outcome of the arbitration will be critical to the university’s future. SAU’s leadership is determined to overcome these obstacles and continue its mission of providing education. The university’s trustees remain optimistic that the arbitration will result in regaining accreditation and improving its financial stability moving forward.