Saint Augustine’s University Gets Accreditation Back

On Monday, Saint Augustine’s University regained its status as an accredited institution.

In a press release obtained by ABC11 , The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) unanimously voted to reverse the 2023 decision to strip the local HBCU of its membership.

“The SACSCOC arbitration committee’s decision serves as a pivotal moment for SAU’s redemption and renewal,” said Brian Boulware, Chairman of the SAU Board of Trustees. “The unanimous reversal by the arbitration committee rightfully corrects the injustice inflicted upon SAU by SACSCOC’s initial ruling and underscores the university’s steadfast commitment to excellence and growth.”

Accreditation expert Dr. Renee Pellom says the move to reverse such a decision, especially in arbitration, is extremely rare.

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“It’s very rare actually, to see an institution reinstated from a drop status that has been pronounced by the accrediting agency.

“I think quite frankly, we don’t know where this is going to go. I have no doubt that the staff is hard at work, you know, working to put in place those kinds of things that need to be done so that they can satisfy SACSCOC and of course, all the requirements that are established and in the criteria and their policies.”

As it stands, St. Augustine’s is still on probation with the SACSCOC. However, the school is still on track to start the new academic year on August 19.