Saint Augustine’s University (SAU), one of North Carolina’s oldest Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), proudly participated in the 2025 North Carolina HBCU Advocacy Day held at the State Legislative Building on April 29 for North Carolina HBCU Advocacy Day. The annual event, hosted by the North Carolina HBCU Bipartisan/Bilateral Caucus, was co-chaired by Senator Gladys A. Robinson, Senator Carl Ford, Representative Zack Hawkins, and Representative Bill Ward. It brought together lawmakers and institutional leaders to discuss legislative priorities and capital funding for the state’s ten HBCUs.

“It was a tremendous honor to represent Saint Augustine’s University among my fellow HBCU leaders and advocate for our shared priorities before the North Carolina General Assembly,” said Dr. Burgess. “SAU is still accredited and a critical economic and cultural asset to Raleigh and North Carolina. Our total economic impact is over $55 million, creating over 563 jobs with over $305 million in lifetime earnings for our 2021 graduates. Anytime any of our HBCUs receive funding, it’s a win for all of us, and we are better when none of us are left behind.”

Later that afternoon, President Burgess joined fellow HBCU presidents for a private roundtable discussion with Governor Josh Stein and Jasmine McGhee, Deputy Chief of Staff and Senior Advisor at the Executive Mansion. The session focused on strengthening collaboration between the state’s executive leadership and its HBCUs—a critical step as these institutions seeks innovative and sustainable solutions for long-term viability.

Despite its challenges, SAU continues to move forward. Through the completion of four years of financial audits, strategic cost reductions, and the development of a campus master plan designed to generate new revenue and academic growth, the university is demonstrating its capacity for renewal. The university remains accredited during its arbitration process with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

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