Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) will proudly celebrate its 2025 Commencement and 94th Baccalaureate Ceremony on Saturday, May 3, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Wake Chapel Church’s Life Enrichment Center in Raleigh, North Carolina. This year’s ceremony reflects a historic moment of triumph and resilience for the university’s graduates, who overcame personal and institutional challenges to achieve their dreams.

“This year’s commencement is more than a ceremony—it is a declaration of our resilience, faith, and relentless commitment to transform lives,” said SAU Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. “We are proud of each graduate and deeply grateful to every partner and supporter who continues to believe in Saint Augustine’s University and its enduring mission.”

SAU alumnus, The Rev. Dr. Allen F. Robinson, ‘92, Rector of Grace Church, Brooklyn Heights, will deliver the keynote address. Special musical guests, SAU alumnus Marcel Anderson, ‘08, acclaimed Neo Soul and Jazz artist, and alumna Monique Lipsey, ‘04, celebrated gospel singer and author, will lend their powerful voices to this year’s celebration.

In a remarkable show of academic excellence, half of SAU’s student body, including members of the Class of 2025, earned Dean’s List honors during the Spring and Fall 2024 semesters, resulting in the third consecutive semester of academic excellence. Their achievements are a testament to the tireless commitment of SAU’s students, faculty, and staff during a pivotal time in the university’s history.

Student Highlights:

This year’s graduating class includes stories of hope, perseverance, and excellence:

• Cameron Moore (Business Administration major) – A Presidential Scholar with a 3.83 GPA, Moore excelled academically and professionally, securing multiple internships at Deloitte and earning acceptance into High Point University’s MBA program.
• Naseem Sharpe (Psychology major) – A Washington, D.C. native, Sharpe blossomed as a student leader and artist, serving as Section Leader of the Superior Sound Marching Band, member of the Chamber Singers, and mentor through dance and cultural empowerment programs.
• LeMonte’ Quarles (Criminal Justice major) – At 54 years old, Quarles returned to complete a lifelong dream inspired by a 25-year career in corrections. He plans to teach Criminal Justice at a community college after retirement.
• Tillia Leary (Accounting major, School of Business, Management & Technology) – Originally from The Bahamas, Leary served as Student Government Association President, Miss School of Business, and a proud Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. member. A Chapel Scholar and Dean’s List honoree, she will attend Ball State University to complete her master’s degree in accounting. She has also been honored to receive numerous scholarships to support her graduate studies.
• Steven Judd (Religious Studies major) – Diagnosed with ADHD while enrolled, Judd overcame academic challenges, earning Dean’s List, Provost’s List, and President’s List honors before graduating at age 54 with deep gratitude to SAU’s dedicated faculty.

These reflections exemplify the strength, character, and future leadership that SAU continues to cultivate.

A Gift of Hope:

Thanks to the generosity of Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, and the advocacy of SAU alums Gilbert, ’76 and Carolyn Knowles, ’77, the student account balances for the graduating class of 2025 were fully covered—ensuring that these determined scholars could walk across the stage debt-free and ready for their following chapters.

Meet Our Distinguished Guests:

• The Rev. Dr. Allen F. Robinson, ’92: Rev. Dr. Robinson is the Rector of Grace Church, Brooklyn Heights, an SAU alumnus who earned his Master of Divinity from Virginia Theological Seminary and Doctor of Ministry from Fuller Theological Seminary. A passionate preacher, teacher, and community leader, Rev. Robinson represents the excellence and global impact of SAU alumni.
• Marcel Anderson, ’08: A Neo Soul, R&B, and Jazz artist whose powerful vocals and inspirational music have captivated audiences nationwide.
• Monique Lipsey, 04: A North Carolina native, Lipsey is a singer, worship leader, and author of two poetry collections. She has shared stages with prominent gospel artists and will release her newest single, “Give Him Praise,” on May 2, 2025.

How to Support SAU:

Friends, alumni, and supporters who wish to help sustain the future of SAU and its extraordinary students are encouraged to give to the Falcon Pride Initiative.

Click here for more information about the 2025 SAU commencement ceremony.
Click here to help support future generations of SAU students and invest in their success.