HBCU Recommitted to Athletics in Light of Accreditation Reversal

Courtesy of SAU communications

RALEIGH, NC— Fans of one of North Carolina’s storied historically black college/university (HBCU) athletic programs received a boost in hopes of seeing their teams compete in this year’s upcoming season. Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) Athletics persists in pursuing excellence in all facets in response to the unanimous reversal of the unjust decision by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) arbitration committee.

“This ruling is a testament to our commitment to nurturing success both on the field and in the classroom,” said SAU Athletic Director Dr. J. Lin Dawson. “SAU Athletics is committed to winning championships, graduating student-athletes, and developing them as leaders.”

The SACSCOC arbitration committee’s decision to overturn the board of trustees and appeals committee’s ruling affirms the North Carolina university’s relentless support for its student-athletes.

“I am currently recruiting, but I’m recruiting mentally tough, good people who are good in the class classroom who want to get out and be good in the community as well,” said SAU Men’s Basketball Head Coach Chucky Brown on The Bird’s Eye View. “SAU is a great place for an opportunity to play because I’m only recruiting guys to play and have an opportunity to shine.”

SAU Athletics is committed to dispelling any misinformation about the future of the North Carolina HBCU, highlighting its active participation in 11 NCAA Division II sports and its continued engagement in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) for the 2024-2025 season.

“The goal for Coach Bat and I is to hit the ground running and look for the best athletes we can bring to the institution,” said SAU Women’s Track & Field Head Coach Elizabeth Gary on The Bird’s Eye View. “We will continue to do well and shine on the track and the field, and get those athletes that we think will be the difference makers for us here at the university and compete in the CIAA, the region, and the nation.”

Recognizing the significant impact of the initial SACSCOC ruling on the university’s reputation, Saint Augustine’s University Athletics is committed to recovering from this tumultuous period. It is steadfast in its resolve to uphold the values of integrity, sportsmanship, and academic excellence and to provide a supportive environment for our HBCU student-athletes.

“SAU has been here since 1867, and we have a rich tradition. We’ve been through so much to keep this university open. With that, we must keep this legacy going,” said SAU Men’s Track & Field Head Coach Bershawn “Batman” Jackson on The Bird’s Eye View. “We will be grinding tooth and nail to bring in the best athletes because, at SAU, you will get a good coach and a great atmosphere; we will love on you as your parents would. You’re going to get coaches that will be there every step of the way.”

With a transformative vision and renewed vigor, SAU Athletics looks forward to a promising future dedicated to providing unparalleled opportunities for our student-athletes to thrive athletically and academically. We remain committed to their success.

“There’s a specific type of recruit that I’m looking for that must be mentally strong, willing to serve others, and be able to put the ball through the hoop and play defense,” said SAU Women’s Basketball Head Coach LaTasha Shipman-Ganus on The Bird’s Eye View. “At SAU, we have a community of faculty and staff who will love on you differently from other universities. You’ll find coaches who will pour into you, and that will look different from anywhere else you go.”

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