April 6th 2024.
As previously reported by BLACK ENTERPRISE, Saint Augustine's University is currently facing a difficult battle to maintain its accreditation. In order to stay financially stable, the university has made the difficult decision to suspend its football program.
According to a report by CBS 17, Dr. Marcus Burgess, the Interim President of Saint Augustine's, explained in an interview that the university's financial situation has forced this decision. He stated, "It would cost approximately 27 to 28 million dollars to maintain the program, and an additional 30 million dollars for necessary maintenance and improvements."
The university is facing a number of challenges that have put them in a difficult position. They have been unable to pay their employees for three consecutive pay periods, have had to switch to mostly virtual operations, and are working with utility companies and vendors to try and stay afloat. Despite these challenges, Dr. Burgess remains committed to seeing the university through this difficult time. "I have had employees tell me they will stick with us, but it's a tough situation for all of us. I am in the same position because the bills keep coming," he shared. "However, I am determined to see this through until the very end."
Unfortunately, it is unlikely that the university will be able to address a wrongful termination lawsuit filed by their former head football coach, Howard Feggins, in 2023. As reported by Sports Illustrated, the financial strain on the university means that this lawsuit may never make it to court. Additionally, Inside Higher Ed reports that the university has also been hit with a $7.9 million tax lien from the IRS for unpaid taxes over the past two years. They are also facing legal action from vendors, such as FieldTurfUSA, who have filed a $598,000 lien for unpaid payments for an artificial turf field. On top of these financial issues, the university's former president, Christine McPhail, is also suing the university for discrimination, claiming that the mostly male Board of Trustees discriminated against her and other Black women.
With mounting bills and lawsuits, it may be necessary for the university to consider alternative solutions. As noted by Inside Higher Ed, one potential option could be to switch accreditation bodies. This has been successful for other universities, such as Bennett College and Paine College, who were able to maintain accreditation by switching to the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools after losing accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
As reported by WRAL, the university has managed to raise $224,182 of their $5 million fundraising goal thanks to a push from alumni. Olivia Huckaby, an alumna, expressed concern for the school and its employees, stating, "It's a little unsettling, I'll be honest." However, she also shared that the alumni are doing their part to support the university through the "$18.67 Challenge," encouraging others to donate $18.67 (in honor of the university's founding year) to help with fundraising efforts.
In the midst of this challenging situation, it is clear that the Saint Augustine's University community is coming together to support their beloved institution.
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