Dear Alumni and Friends,

For more than 158 years, Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) has stood on the quiet strength of faith and the persistent belief that education changes everything. Founded in 1867 by the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, our mission was clear from the beginning: to transform lives through learning, leadership, and service.

That mission has never changed, but today, our survival depends on whether others still share our belief in it as well.

Like many historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) across the country, SAU has faced moments of hardship. We have made mistakes, and we have learned from them. We have faced financial challenges, leadership transitions, and the heartbreak of skepticism — not only from critics, but sometimes from our own community.

And yet, we are still here. We are still teaching. We are still believing. We are still transforming lives — one student, one degree, one dream at a time.

When you step onto the grounds of SAU, you feel something more profound than struggle — you feel purpose. You feel the presence of those who built this place brick by brick with faith stronger than circumstance. That’s why I write to you today — not to ask for a bailout, but to invite your belief.

Our story is not one of defeat, but of redemption. We are rebuilding our foundation with integrity, transparency, and renewed commitment to the students and community we serve. We have a plan. We have the people. And we have one final chance to ensure that this institution — a cornerstone of Raleigh’s history and a national symbol of perseverance — continues to shine for generations to come.

SAU is more than an HBCU. It is a living testament to what happens when faith meets opportunity. It is proof that something once broken can rise again with grace, courage, and the support of a community.

To every philanthropist, leader, and believer who has ever wondered whether your support could genuinely change the world — I assure you, this is your moment.

Because saving SAU is not about saving a single school, it’s about saving hope. It’s about saving opportunity. It’s about ensuring that a legacy built by faith can continue to build futures.

To those who have stood with us, we extend our gratitude. To those who have doubted us, we understand. And to those who are listening with open hearts — we invite you to believe again. Faith built us. Belief will sustain us. And together, we can make history once more.

With Falcon Pride,

Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples, Interim President
Saint Augustine’s University

Click here to support the Falcon Pride Initiative

Download