To support this work, the University will initiate a voluntary Chapter 11 restructuring process. This structured, court-supervised process will enable SAU to organize its financial affairs in an orderly and transparent manner. The decision, made by the University鈥檚 Board of Trustees, reflects a deliberate and strategic step to advance the University鈥檚 long-term sustainability while addressing current financial realities.

The University will continue to operate throughout the process, and a plan of reorganization is being developed to be submitted to the Court outlining SAU鈥檚 path forward. SAU enters this process with the support of its primary lending partner, Self-Help Ventures Fund, demonstrating confidence in the University鈥檚 future.

鈥淐hapter 11 provides a comprehensive path to address our financial challenges and move forward with a stronger foundation,鈥� the Board said.

The University also confirmed it will not continue litigation related to its accreditation status, which is expected to conclude effective May 15. After careful evaluation, the Board determined that continuing litigation would not be a prudent use of resources. SAU will instead focus on supporting students through teach-out agreements, developing non-degree certificates and apprenticeship programs, and building a pathway toward reaccreditation. The institution reached this conclusion in cooperation with its accreditor, SACSCOC, to ensure impacted students were able to graduate from an accredited institution.

As part of this broader transition, Interim President Dr. Jennie Ward-Robinson has stepped down. The Board expresses its appreciation for her service and has appointed Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples to be Interim President.

SAU will work collaboratively with stakeholders, including creditors, donors, alumni, and community partners, to provide meaningful opportunities for supporters of the institution to contribute and play an active role in its continued progress and success.

These steps position the University to move forward with clarity and purpose, continuing its mission of preparing students academically, socially, and spiritually for leadership in a complex, diverse, and rapidly changing world.

Founded in 1867, SAU remains deeply committed to its historic mission and to building a sustainable future.

for more information and Frequently Asked Questions.

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鈥淭he achievements of Sandy Chapman, Dr. Johnelle Sherald, and Veronica Mack Cohen reflect the enduring legacy of leadership, service, and excellence that 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University instills in its graduates,鈥� said SAU Board of Trustees Chair Sophie Gibson. 鈥淭heir national recognition through UNCF not only celebrates their individual accomplishments but also underscores the profound impact SAU alumni continue to make in strengthening our communities, advancing educational opportunity, and uplifting the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.鈥�

These honors highlight the enduring legacy of SAU graduates who lead with excellence, service, and commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

鈥淭hese alumni represent the very best of SAU,鈥� said SAU Interim President Dr. Jennie Ward-Robinson. 鈥淭heir national recognition through UNCF is a testament not only to their individual excellence but to the enduring power of an SAU education rooted in service, leadership, and faith. We are immensely proud of their accomplishments and grateful for the example they continue to set for our students and alumni around the world.鈥�

Sandy Chapman 鈥�90 Inducted into UNCF Hall of Honor
Alumnus Sandy Chapman 鈥�90听received the prestigious Most Outstanding Alumni Award听and was inducted into the UNCF Hall of Honor, one of the organization鈥檚 highest distinctions.

The award recognizes alumni for exceptional dedication to their alma mater, community service, and steadfast support of UNCF鈥檚 mission.

A proud Falcon, Chapman consistently supports SAU initiatives, builds alumni engagement, and leads with humility and integrity.

As part of the honor, Chapman鈥檚 portrait will be permanently displayed in the UNCF Hall of Honor in Washington, D.C., ensuring his legacy endures.

Dr. Johnelle L. Sherald 鈥�76 Receives 2026 NAA Presidents鈥� Cabinet Chairman鈥檚 Award
National Alumni Association of SAU President Dr. Johnelle L. Sherald 鈥�76听was recognized as one of five recipients of the 2026 NAA Presidents鈥� Cabinet Chairman鈥檚 Award.

The award honors exceptional dedication, leadership, and service among National Alumni Association Presidents representing UNCF member institutions.

The UNCF National Alumni Council, founded in 1946, supports and strengthens Historically Black Colleges and Universities by promoting best practices and advancing student success. The NAA Presidents鈥� Cabinet includes leaders from 37 UNCF member institutions and serves as a vital network advancing fundraising and institutional leadership initiatives.

Dr. Sherald鈥檚 recognition highlights her leadership and advocacy for SAU鈥檚 alumni community.

Veronica Mack Cohen 鈥�77 Named 2026 UNCF Pre-Alumni Council Advisor of the Year
Alumna Veronica Mack Cohen 鈥�77听was honored with the 2026 UNCF Pre-Alumni Council Advisor of the Year Award, recognizing her decades of dedication to student leadership, professional development, and alumni engagement.

As Pre-Alumni Council Advisor at Claflin University in Orangeburg, South Carolina, Cohen has consistently mentored students and ensured their active participation in national UNCF initiatives, including the Miss UNCF Coronation and leadership conferences. Many of her mentees have gone on to serve in national leadership roles within the UNCF Pre-Alumni Council.

In addition to her work with students, Cohen is a Life Member of the National Alumni Association of SAU and serves as its Financial Secretary on the Executive Board, further demonstrating her lifelong commitment to the university.

A Legacy of Leadership and Service
These national recognitions underscore the profound impact of SAU alumni across the UNCF network and beyond. From national leadership to student mentorship, SAU Falcons continue to exemplify service, excellence, and commitment to advancing educational opportunity.

SAU and the National Alumni Association extend heartfelt congratulations to Sandy Chapman 鈥�90, Dr. Johnelle L. Sherald 鈥�76, and Veronica Mack Cohen 鈥�77 for their outstanding achievements and continued dedication to the mission of UNCF and SAU.

听to learn more about the National Alumni Association of 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University
听to learn more about the UNCF National Alumni Council

听

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鈥淒r. Prezell Robinson鈥檚 legacy is woven into the very foundation of 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University,鈥� said SAU Board of Trustees Chair Sophie Gibson. 鈥淔or nearly three decades, his visionary leadership strengthened this institution and expanded opportunity for generations of students. We are honored to celebrate his extraordinary life and the enduring example he continues to set for the SAU community.鈥�

Dr. Robinson, now 105 years old, served as the eighth president of SAU from 1967 to 1995, guiding the institution through nearly three decades of growth and national recognition. His leadership prepared generations of students for leadership and service.

鈥淒r. Prezell Robinson鈥檚 leadership helped shape SAU into the institution that so many generations of students proudly call their alma mater,鈥� said SAU Interim President Dr. Jennie Ward-Robinson. 鈥淗is life is a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of education and the enduring role historically Black colleges and universities play in advancing opportunity, leadership, and service.鈥�

The celebration not only brought together elected officials, alumni leaders, and Raleigh community members but also served as a significant tribute to Dr. Robinson鈥檚 lasting impact on 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University and the city he shaped.

鈥淭his is where we live. This is where we were born,鈥� said SAU alumna Ms. Octavia Rainey, 鈥�78, community activist and organizer of the event. 鈥淪o, we pay tribute to our neighborhood. We pay tribute to our business. We pay tribute to our churches and, of course, to 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University.鈥�

Among those offering tributes were U.S. Congresswoman Deborah Ross, NC Senator Dan Blue, Wake County Commissioner Tara Waters, Raleigh City Council members Corey Branch and Stormie Forte, and Shaw University President Dr. Paulette R. Dillard, who recognized Dr. Robinson鈥檚 contributions to education, civic leadership, and the advancement of opportunity in North Carolina. A message on behalf of SAU Interim President Dr. Jennie Ward-Robinson was presented during the event, recognizing Dr. Robinson鈥檚 enduring legacy.

The program also featured reflections from the SAU Class of 1975, and Ms. JeSanne Robinson Johnson, ’88, an alumna and the daughter of Dr. Robinson, gave personal remarks honoring her father鈥檚 dedication to education and his lifelong commitment to uplifting students through learning.

鈥淲hen people ask me about my father, they often talk about his accomplishments, nearly three decades he served as President of 51重口猎奇鈥檚, the academic programs he expanded, the buildings he modernized, and the accreditation he strengthened,鈥� Johnson said. 鈥淎ll of that is true, and it matters deeply, but today they ask him, and I’m proud to say, how is he doing? And he’s doing great for 105.鈥�

Dr. Robinson鈥檚 story is deeply intertwined with 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University. After joining the faculty, he rose through the ranks to become president, serving one of the longest tenures in university history. His leadership reinforced SAU鈥檚 mission of preparing students for lives of purpose and impact.

As SAU builds on its tradition of leadership and service, Dr. Robinson鈥檚 life remains a testament to the lasting power of education and the vital significance of historically Black colleges and universities.

听to view the full gallery of the Black History Program

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51重口猎奇鈥檚 University (SAU) today affirmed a renewed standard of leadership, accountability, and stewardship as the University prepares for the 2026鈥�2027 academic year. At a time when the protection of SAU鈥檚 mission, legacy, and future requires focused and disciplined governance, the 鈥攗nder the leadership of Sophie Gibson, Chair of the Board of Trustees and the first woman in SAU鈥檚 history to hold that position鈥攈as taken deliberate actions to strengthen governance, ensure leadership continuity, and establish a clear framework for institutional renewal grounded in responsibility, transparency, and long-term sustainability.

鈥淪AU has taken meaningful steps to strengthen governance, institutional leadership, and planning,鈥� said Sophie Gibson, Chair of the Board of Trustees. 鈥淲e are building a Board with the experience and discipline required for this moment. Our focus is on restoring stability, rebuilding trust, and positioning SAU for sustainable success. We welcome continued engagement from our students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, faith partners, community leaders, institutional partners, and supporters of all kinds as we work together to secure a strong future for this historic institution.鈥�

Over the past months, the Board of Trustees has implemented governance enhancements designed to improve accountability, financial oversight, and strategic leadership. These actions include the addition of trustees with expertise in finance, higher education administration, organizational leadership, and institutional transformation鈥攃apabilities aligned with the University鈥檚 current operational and strategic priorities.

As part of this renewed direction, the Board has articulated a vision to reestablish 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University as a model for effective board鈥損resident collaboration, underscoring the role of strong governance structures in supporting institutional stability, accountability, and long-term success.

In December, the Board of Trustees appointed Dr. Jennie Ward-Robinson as Interim President to ensure executive leadership continuity during a period of institutional transition. The Board continues to exercise its fiduciary and governance oversight responsibilities as the University advances its recovery and renewal efforts.

51重口猎奇鈥檚 University remains operational and accredited. Remote classes began on January 14, and academic programs and essential student services continue without interruption. Protecting academic continuity, maintaining accreditation, and ensuring students can progress toward degree completion remain core institutional priorities.

As part of its recovery strategy, SAU leadership is advancing comprehensive financial stabilization measures and a long-term sustainability plan with support from Self-Help, a financial partner, as well as additional institutional, financial, and advisory partners providing assistance across financial, operational, and strategic areas. These partnerships are focused on strengthening internal financial systems, improving operational controls, and laying a foundation for long-term institutional health. As a matter of University policy, SAU does not comment on specific financial transactions, loan terms, or creditor negotiations.

Board leadership emphasized that the actions underway represent an important turning point for 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University鈥攐ne grounded in transparency, responsible stewardship, and a renewed commitment to serving students and preserving and strengthening SAU鈥檚 159-year legacy.

听for more information on SAU鈥檚 SACSCOC Updates.
听to support the Falcon Pride Initiative.

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鈥淲hile some may only know our challenges, these rankings tell a truer story 鈥� a story of perseverance, excellence, and hope,鈥� said Dr. Verjanis Peoples, Interim President of SAU. 鈥淭he fact that SAU climbed 12 places in social mobility this year proves that our students are thriving and that our mission continues to change lives. These results demonstrate that SAU is still worth believing in. Every ranking, every gain, and every success story fuels our belief in what is possible. We ask our alumni, friends, and partners across the nation to stand with us 鈥� because together, we can secure a future where SAU continues to transform lives for generations to come.鈥�

Research.com 2026 Best Colleges Rankings
Research.com 鈥� one of the most trusted global platforms for higher education analysis 鈥� ranked SAU among the top colleges in North Carolina and the US South region. Key distinctions include:

• #15 鈥� Most Popular Colleges in North Carolina
• Most Popular North Carolina 2026 Distinction
• #30 鈥� Best Colleges in North Carolina
• #125 鈥� Most Popular Colleges in the South

These rankings reflect the resilience of SAU鈥檚 academic mission, the dedication of its faculty, and the continued belief that students place in the Falcon experience.

U.S. News & World Report Rankings
SAU also recorded meaningful progress in the 2025鈥�2026 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges Rankings, highlighted by a major upward climb in Social Mobility:

SAU rose 12 spots in Social Mobility 鈥� from #54 last year to #42 this year.

This represents one of the strongest year-over-year improvements among HBCUs in the region, underscoring SAU鈥檚 longstanding commitment to supporting students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Additional recognitions include:

• #42 Top Performers on Social Mobility 鈥� Regional Colleges South
• #3 HBCU in North Carolina for Social Mobility

These recognitions confirm SAU鈥檚 impact in advancing student success and expanding opportunity 鈥� even in the face of extraordinary institutional challenges.

Why these rankings matter now
The combination of strong Research.com placements and the upward movement in U.S. News rankings sends a clear message:

SAU is more than its crisis 鈥� SAU is its impact.
SAU is its students.
SAU is its future.

Continuing the Momentum: The Falcon Pride Initiative
The university invites alumni, supporters, and community partners to stand with SAU at this defining moment by contributing to the Falcon Pride Initiative, which directly supports student success, academic excellence, and long-term institutional sustainability.

Click here to support SAU’s Falcon Pride Initiative.

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51重口猎奇鈥檚 University (SAU) proudly announces a generous $25,000 donation from the in support of the university鈥檚 Falcon Pride Initiative鈥攁 movement uniting alumni, community leaders, and partners in sustaining SAU鈥檚 historic mission of academic excellence, faith, and service.

This meaningful contribution was made possible through the leadership of Senator Paul Lowe, Chairman of the NCLBCF, and the advocacy of Senator Dan Blue, whose continued support underscores the university鈥檚 lasting importance to the city of Raleigh and the state of North Carolina.

鈥淲e are deeply grateful to the North Carolina Legislative Black Caucus Foundation, Chairman Senator Paul Lowe, and Senator Dan Blue for their unwavering belief in 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University,鈥� said Dr. Verjanis Peoples, Interim President of SAU. 鈥淭his gift is a powerful reminder that SAU鈥檚 legacy of educating leaders and transforming communities still matters and is worth fighting for鈥攁nd that our mission continues to inspire confidence across North Carolina and beyond. We invite alumni, partners, and friends to stand with us as we move forward with faith, purpose, and Falcon Pride.鈥�

Founded in 1867 by the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University has long stood as a beacon of opportunity, leadership, and hope. Today, the Falcon Pride Initiative continues that legacy by engaging supporters to ensure the university鈥檚 ability to educate future generations, empower students, and remain a positive cornerstone of the Raleigh community.

The university continues to welcome contributions to the Falcon Pride Initiative, which supports scholarships, student success, and institutional sustainability.

Click here to join the movement by supporting SAU鈥檚 Falcon Pride Initiative.

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鈥淭hese victories remind us that the mission of 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University lives far beyond our campus,鈥� said Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples, Interim President of SAU. 鈥淥ur alumni are leaders, change agents, and bridge builders. We are incredibly proud of Mr. Bussey and Mayor Foushee for their continued commitment to serve their communities with excellence and integrity.鈥�

Grady Bussey, a member of the Class of 1996, was elected to the Knightdale Town Council, bringing decades of experience in youth development, public service, and community advocacy to the growing Wake County community. A proud Knightdale resident and longtime servant leader, Bussey has been a tireless champion for programs that empower young people and foster inclusive growth in eastern Wake County.

In a , that engaged over 1,200 followers, Bussey’s response was simple鈥�”We won!!”

Barbara Middleton Foushee, Class of 1986, was , after previously serving on the Carrboro Town Council. Foushee is a lifelong public servant and social justice advocate whose leadership has elevated equity and inclusion in Orange County. Her re-election affirms the community鈥檚 trust in her vision for a more just and vibrant Carrboro.

“I’m just very proud of the race we ran here in Carrboro,”听Foushee听said 听“I had an amazing team behind me, lots of community support, and I’m just ready to continue the work.”

As SAU continues to navigate its own transformation, the achievements of these alumni reflect the institution鈥檚 lasting contributions to public service and civic engagement across North Carolina and beyond.

Click here to support SAU’s Falcon Pride Initiative.
to learn more about SAU alumni.

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Through this initiative, SAU will receive a $5 million endowment stake from UNCF. The institution will work with UNCF to raise an additional $5 million in matching funds, creating a $10 million endowment that will be managed in perpetuity. These pooled funds will make annual distributions at a 4% payout rate, providing long-term financial stability and greater opportunities for SAU students.

鈥淭his transformational investment affirms the critical role that SAU plays in higher education and will allow us to expand opportunities for our students, strengthen our academic programs, and build permanent resources for the future,鈥� said SAU Interim President Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples. 鈥淲e are proud to work alongside UNCF to raise the matching funds that will double this impact on our institution.鈥�

The $70 million gift from MacKenzie Scott brings UNCF significantly closer to its goal of raising $370 million for the pooled endowment, a critical component of its broader $1 billion capital campaign. Once matched, the initiative will increase the median endowment of UNCF-member institutions by 63%, addressing the stark disparity between HBCU and non-HBCU endowments.

鈥淭his extraordinary gift is a powerful vote of confidence in HBCUs and in the work of UNCF,鈥� said Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of UNCF. 鈥淚t provides a once-in-a-generation opportunity for our member institutions to build permanent assets that will support students and campuses for decades to come.鈥�

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51重口猎奇鈥檚 University (SAU) announced today that it has successfully secured a preliminary injunction to maintain the university鈥檚 accreditation, ensuring that classes will begin on September 2, 2025, as scheduled, with SAU remaining a fully accredited institution. The injunction, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia on August 14 and granted this week, prevents any disruption to SAU鈥檚 accreditation status while the university continues its legal challenge to the recent accrediting body鈥檚 decision. This development ensures that current and incoming students can proceed with confidence into the Fall 2025 semester, knowing that an accredited university will recognize their education and degrees.

The filing of the preliminary injunction was made possible by the overwhelming support of the SAU community. In particular, the National Alumni Association of 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University contributed a pivotal donation of $100,000 鈥� funds that covered the filing of the preliminary injunction 鈥� and several individual alumni and supporters stepped forward with generous contributions to bolster SAU鈥檚 legal efforts.

鈥淲e are immensely grateful for the outpouring of support from our alumni and friends. Their commitment ensured we had the resources to take this crucial legal step to protect our students and our mission,鈥� said Sophie L. Gibson, the newly appointed Chair of the SAU Board of Trustees. 鈥淭his injunction is not just a legal reprieve; it is a testament to the power of the Falcon community. It allows us to continue educating our students without interruption as we vigorously defend SAU鈥檚 future in court, and it shows that we soar higher when we soar together. We remain steadfast in our mission to provide education grounded in integrity, faith, and excellence 鈥� now with renewed optimism that SAU鈥檚 accreditation and legacy will endure.鈥�

What This Means
Under the protection of the preliminary injunction, SAU will remain accredited and operational as legal proceedings continue. The university鈥檚 lawsuit, filed against the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), seeks to overturn the decision that would remove SAU from membership. The injunction ensures that SAU鈥檚 accreditation is safeguarded during this process, meaning students can enroll, receive financial aid, and continue their studies with complete confidence that their degrees will be accredited while the case is underway. In addition, the injunction provides SAU with time to present its case and pursue alternative accreditation avenues if necessary, all while students鈥� education continues uninterrupted.

鈥淭his is a tremendous win for 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University and, most importantly, for our students,鈥� said SAU Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. 鈥淭hanks to our supporters, we will open our (virtual) doors on September 2 as an accredited institution, just as we promised. We have said all along that we will stop at nothing to maintain our accreditation and continue serving our scholars 鈥� and we meant it. Our faculty and staff are fully prepared to begin the semester, and our commitment to providing an uninterrupted, high-quality education remains stronger than ever. We are deeply thankful to every alum, donor, and friend who stepped up to make this possible. Your support has been a beacon of hope for SAU during this challenging time.鈥�

Historic Leadership Transition
The SAU Board of Trustees announces a leadership transition with heartfelt gratitude to outgoing Board Chair Mr. Brian A. Boulware 鈥�95. After years of committed leadership and in light of increasing professional engagements, Mr. Boulware has chosen to step down from the Chair role, confident in the strong foundation now in place for SAU鈥檚 future. He will continue to serve as a valued Trustee, offering his insight and steadfast support. Under Mr. Boulware鈥檚 leadership as Board Chairman, the university completed four years of overdue financial audits, restored employee payroll and benefits, implemented stronger accountability measures, and secured critical funds to sustain the institution鈥檚 mission.

鈥淚t has been a privilege to serve as Chair of this historic institution during a time of great challenge and transformation,鈥� said Trustee Boulware. 鈥淚 am proud of the work we have accomplished together and confident in the leadership of Chair Gibson and the Board to guide SAU into a bright future.鈥�

Building on this momentum, the Board is pleased to welcome a new leadership team. Ms. Sophie L. Gibson, of Atlanta, GA, has been appointed Chair of the Board of Trustees, effective August 15, 2025, marking the first time a woman has held this role in SAU鈥檚 history.

鈥淲e are deeply grateful for the steady leadership of Trustee Boulware during challenging times,鈥� said Chair Sophie Gibson. 鈥淗is leadership as Chairman played a pivotal role in protecting the legacy and future of SAU. As we move into this new chapter, we honor their contributions while embracing a bold, strategic path forward that will strengthen our impact for generations to come.鈥�

Serving alongside her as Vice Chair is Ms. V. Lynette Mitchell 鈥�89, of Williamstown, NJ, marking the first time that women have both top Board positions. This historic transition reflects the University鈥檚 commitment to inclusive leadership and continued excellence. With a strong foundation in place, SAU looks forward to reaching new heights under the guidance of Ms. Gibson and Ms. Mitchell as they lead the University into its next chapter of success.

鈥淎s an SAU alumna and now Vice Chair of the Board, I am deeply committed to seeing our beloved institution thrive,鈥� said Trustee Mitchell. 鈥淲e are turning the page to an exciting new era for SAU 鈥� one guided by a clear strategic direction and a renewed Falcon spirit. Our alumni and supporters have shown incredible faith in this University 鈥� from rallying around our legal efforts to investing in our students 鈥� and that support will continue to be crucial. Together, we will ensure that 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University not only survives, but truly flourishes in the years ahead.鈥�

A Call for Support
As SAU moves forward, the university calls on its community to maintain the momentum. Continued support is vital to sustain the legal fight and to ensure a successful Fall 2025 term. SAU encourages all supporters to contribute to the ongoing efforts by visiting the Believe in SAU: A Falcon Is Not an Ordinary Bird donation campaign on the university鈥檚 website. This portal offers options to contribute to both immediate operational needs and the legal defense fund. Every contribution 鈥� no matter the size 鈥� brings SAU one step closer to a lasting victory in securing its future.

For those who wish to make in-kind contributions specifically toward legal expenses, university donors can make arrangements to give directly to SAU鈥檚 attorneys,, to support the university鈥檚 legal fund.

By channeling support either through SAU鈥檚 donation page or directly to the legal team, friends of the university can actively help 鈥�Believe in SAU鈥� and sustain its mission.

听for more information on SAU鈥檚 SACSCOC Updates.
听to support the Falcon Pride Initiative.

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鈥淲e will stop at nothing to ensure that SAU maintains its accreditation and continues serving our students,鈥� said Board of Trustees Chairman Brian Boulware. 鈥淪AU鈥檚 mission is bigger than any one setback. For over a century, SAU has been a beacon of opportunity. That legacy will continue. We are pressing onward 鈥� with faith, focus, and fortitude 鈥� to secure the accreditation our students deserve. Our resolve to educate and empower our students is unshakeable, and the entire SAU community stands together to support the path ahead.鈥�

What This Decision Means
In response to the arbitration result, SAU鈥檚 attorneys will file an injunction in court to prevent any disruption to the university鈥檚 accreditation status. This legal action will effectively extend SAU鈥檚 accredited status during the transition period, ensuring that current and future graduates receive their degrees from an institution that is accredited.

鈥淪AU is not closing听鈥� our doors remain open, and classes will continue,鈥� said SAU Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. 鈥淭his decision does not define us 鈥� our resilience does. SAU has faced challenges before, and each time, we have risen to meet them. We have significantly strengthened our foundation, and we will continue to serve our students with excellence. Our priority now is to ensure every student can complete their education at SAU with an accredited degree in hand, and we have a clear plan to make that happen.鈥�

Pursuit of Maintaining Accreditation
The university is continuing its听process of maintaining听accreditation through听legal intervention to maintain current accreditation and will explore all other means of accreditation if necessary to demonstrate SAU鈥檚 absolute commitment to leaving no stone unturned in maintaining quality and compliance for its students.

鈥淢aintaining听accreditation is a critical step in our plan to safeguard our students鈥� futures,鈥� said Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples, Interim Provost & Vice President of Academic Affairs. 鈥淲e are confident that we can continue providing federal financial aid and an accredited degree pathway for our students.鈥�

Key Financial Recovery Milestones
Despite the arbitration committee鈥檚 decision, SAU has made tremendous progress over the past year, and the university鈥檚 progress will continue unabated. SAU has recently produced a comprehensive 鈥淪AU Reset鈥� five-year strategic plan to propel the university forward beyond this current moment in history. Meanwhile, the university has bolstered its financial stability, improved governance, and enhanced student outcomes听in preparation for a sustainable future over the past year. The following key actions have strengthened SAU鈥檚 foundation:

• Debt Restructuring and New Funding:听The university secured significant new funding and established partnerships to address its debt and invest in its future. These efforts included a $7 million loan听from Gothic Ventures to support short-term needs, as well as a major partnership that will leverage SAU鈥檚 valuable real estate assets through a long-term lease and redevelopment initiative. The plan will clear SAU鈥檚 existing debts听and fund new investments by unlocking the value of underutilized campus property听through mixed-use development. The university is finalizing the agreement and will share more specific details in the coming weeks. It is a game-changing investment that provides SAU with the financial leverage to move forward, regardless of the accrediting body.
• Enhanced Financial Controls and Audits:听The University completed four consecutive annual financial audits听(FY21鈥揊Y24) to ensure complete transparency and accountability in its finances. Improved financial management practices and oversight mechanisms are now in place to maintain compliance with accreditation standards.
• Cost Restructuring for Sustainability:听To 鈥渞ight-size鈥� the institution, SAU streamlined its operations听in late 2024, including painful but necessary budget cuts that reduced expenditures by approximately 50%听and yielded $17 million in annual savings. These decisive actions have resulted in a balanced budget for the current fiscal year, demonstrating prudent financial stewardship.
• Strengthened Governance and Oversight:听SAU鈥檚 Board of Trustees and administration have enhanced financial oversight processes, implemented a sustainability plan, and tightened controls on expenditures, ensuring compliance with accreditation standards and fostering long-term fiscal health.

That plan includes not only the pursuit of alternative accreditation and the legal injunction but also a continued focus on academic excellence and student success. SAU remains dedicated to providing a high-quality, uninterrupted educational experience, and Fall 2025 classes will commence virtually as scheduled.

鈥淭hroughout this process, our core mission remains unchanged: to provide its students with a quality education and a nurturing environment听rooted in integrity, faith, and excellence,鈥� said Trustee Sophie Gibson. 鈥淭he Falcon community鈥檚 spirit is unbroken. SAU will continue to soar to greater heights, demonstrating that perseverance and commitment can overcome any challenge on the path to institutional renewal.鈥�

Moving Forward
SAU will keep its community informed as it advances in its pursuit of maintaining accreditation.听Meanwhile, the university prepares to welcome new and returning students for a virtual Fall semester with course offerings available to traditional and adult learners, particularly in the Raleigh community.SAU鈥檚听leadership is actively engaging with state and federal education officials, alumni, donors, and partners to garner support and ensure a smooth transition.听

Request for Support
The university听calls upon its network of supporters and the wider Raleigh community to remain steadfast during this period听by supporting the Falcon Pride Initiative, which aims to cover the estimated $1 million litigation cost, including a $350,000 retainer fee.听The university鈥檚 resilience is a collective effort 鈥� one that has been forged through adversity and will ultimately lead to a stronger, reinvented 51重口猎奇鈥檚 University.

听for more information on SAU鈥檚 SACSCOC Updates.
听to support the Falcon Pride Initiative.

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