Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) has taken a strategic step toward financial stability and accreditation excellence. Dr. Lynda Batiste has been appointed Senior Vice President of Finance / Chief Operations Officer. As the SVPFCOO, Dr. Batiste will provide leadership, management, coordination, and supervision of the college’s fiscal affairs, facilities, human resources, security, and information technology.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Lynda Batiste to SAU,” said SAU Interim President Dr. Marcus Burgess. “Her extensive expertise in finance, accreditation, and higher education administration positions us to address our challenges head-on with resilience and innovation.”

Dr. Batiste holds a Ph.D. in Urban Higher Education from Jackson State University and a Master of Professional Accountancy (MPA) and Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Southern University and A&M College. Additionally, she has completed 30 hours of coursework toward her doctorate in business administration.

“I am truly honored to join SAU in this critical role,” said Dr. Batiste. “I am dedicated to leveraging my expertise to propel us past financial and accreditation challenges with sustainable solutions and strategic foresight.”

In addition, Dr. Batiste has served in administrative positions with Lemoyne Owen College as Vice President for Finance/CFO, and Alabama A&M University appointed her to serve as the Interim Vice President of Business and Finance. Dr. Batiste served as the Assistant Vice President for Finance/Comptroller at Alabama A&M University. 

Other positions held by Dr. Batiste were Director of Finance/CFO for the Southern University Agriculture Research and Extension Center, instructor and fiscal assistant, trainer with the Southern University Center for Economic and Entrepreneurship Development, and teaching positions with Southern University and Baton Rouge Community College. Dr. Batiste is quite knowledgeable of the accreditation process and has served as a member of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) reaffirmation committees. She has also presented at several professional association conferences and meetings.