At its meeting on December 4, 2022, the SACSCOC Board of Trustees took the following actions regarding the accreditation status of Saint Augustine’s University:
The Board continued accreditation for Good Cause and placed the University on Probation for twelve (12) months for failure to comply with:
Core Requirement 4.1 (Governing board characteristics), Core Requirement 13.1 (Financial resources), Core Requirement 13.2 (Financial documents), Standard 13.3 (Financial responsibility), Standard 13.4 (Control of finances), and Standard 13.6 (Federal and state responsibilities) of the Principles of Accreditation.
A Special Committee was authorized to visit the institution. The University’s leadership team has initiated actions to address the issues cited by the SACSCOC’s Board of Trustees and will work collaboratively with SACSCOC’s staff to restore full compliance across all Principles of Accreditation.
During the last two years, we have taken unprecedented action to protect and advance the fiscal health of Saint Augustine’s University. These efforts are reflected in the significant progress in areas such as increased enrollment, increased alumni and employee giving, increased grant activity, increased endowments, reduced student debt, improved upward mobility of graduates, and year-end balanced budgets. In addition, the University has increased the number of student internships, external partnerships, and strategic partnerships and alliances. While we are disappointed with the decision made by the SACSCOC Board, we are not discouraged; the entire SAU community has renewed our commitment to fulfill our vision and stay the course to complete our mission.
We look forward to collaborating with SACSCOC during this year to demonstrate that we have addressed the noncompliance issues. Over the next twelve (12) months, our leadership team will work closely with SACSCOC to ensure that SAU continues to demonstrate compliance with all accreditation principles. This 12-month journey is being seen by our leadership as a Year of Progress, Transparency, and Partnership.
DISCLOSURE STATEMENT
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Even though accreditation continues, why was SAU placed on Probation for Good Cause?
The SACSCOC Board continued accreditation and placed the University on Probation for Good Cause for twelve (12) months for failure to comply with the following Principles of Accreditation:
Core Requirement 4.1 (Governing board characteristics), Core Requirement 13.1 (Financial resources), Core Requirement 13.2 (Financial documents), Standard 13.3 (Financial responsibility), Standard 13.4 (Control of finances), and Standard 13.6 (Federal and state responsibilities) of the Principles of Accreditation.
2. What are the next steps?
SAU will receive the official letter from SACSCOC in January 2023, which will include specific details and instructions that the University will follow to address the compliance issues.
3. How long will SAU be on Probation for good cause?
SAU remains fully accredited. The Probation for Good Cause period is for 12 months.
4. Is the University still accredited?
Yes. SAU remains fully accredited and has a strong partnership with SACSCOC.
5. Who is responsible at the University for making sure we maintain our accreditation?
The University President is primarily responsible for ensuring that the University maintains its accreditation.
6. What happens if we do not fix the areas of focus? Will SAU lose its accreditation?
SAU will not lose its accreditation. SAU fully expects to demonstrate compliance within the period of Probation for Good Cause. The SAU Board of Trustees and administration are fully committed and prepared to implement all of the necessary corrective actions to satisfactorily address the areas of focus.
7. How does SACSCOC’s decision affect me as a student?
- Your financial aid will not be affected. The University remains accredited by SACSCOC and is still recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) in the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs to offer and award federal financial aid to eligible students.
- You will continue to receive a first-class education and receive full credit for classes. The SACSCOC Probation for Good Cause status does not impact the course offerings, academic standing, coursework, or internship opportunities for SAU students.
- You will graduate from an accredited institution. The SACSCOC Probation for Good Cause status did not arise from focus about the quality of SAU’s academic programs. SAU graduates will continue to be highly competitive for admission to graduate programs and remain highly competitive for employment.
8. How does SACSCOC’s decision affect me as a donor?
In partnership with SACSCOC, we have taken the necessary steps to fortify our financial practices. SAU’s continued accreditation ensures that your donations will remain tax-deductible and will be used to fund programs such as campus-wide technology, faculty research, state-of-the-art classroom and athletic equipment, and scholarships for deserving students.
9. How can I stay informed about new developments regarding Saint Augustine’s University’s status with SACSCOC?
Any new developments regarding SACSCOC will be posted here.