After a year of demonstrating significant strides, Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) continues its efforts toward maintaining its accreditation. During the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) Annual Meeting in Orlando, FL, the SACSCOC Board of Trustees voted to remove SAU’s membership from their accrediting body. SAU will receive an official letter of SACSCOC’s decision on January 11th, and the university will respond with a request to appeal the decision by January 21st. According to the SACSCOC policy, the university will remain an accredited institution on probation during the appeal process. 

“The work has already begun to appeal SACSCOC’s decision, and we will remain steadfast during this process,” said SAU Acting President Dr. Leslie Rodriguez-McClellon. “While we are disappointed by SACSCOC’s decision, we are confident and unified in our commitment to fulfill and complete our mission.” 

Since last year, SAU has taken unprecedented actions to protect and advance the university’s fiscal health. These efforts reflect significant progress in increased retention and graduation rates, alumni giving, improved graduates’ social mobility, grant activity, endowments, reduced student debt, and year-end balanced budgets.  

“We will stop at nothing to ensure that SAU maintains its accreditation,” said The Honorable Justice James E.C. Perry, Chairman of the SAU Board of Trustees. “We are experiencing one of the most important moments in the institution’s history. Our charge to everyone associated with the university is to comply with all policies and procedures, advance the institution’s mission and vision, and work collectively to place SAU back in good standing with SACSCOC.” 

SAU’s appeal of SACSCOC’s decision will allow the university to continue operating as a fully accredited institution, and still offer financial aid to students during this process. 

Click here to learn more about SAU’s accreditation status.