Future of Saint Augustine’s University in Question Amid SAVE SAU Legal Setback
RALEIGH, NC – Concerns about the future of Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) intensified Thursday (Nov. 14) as a Wake County judge dismissed a lawsuit filed by the SAVE SAU Coalition, a group alleging financial mismanagement by the university’s Board of Trustees.
Superior Court Judge Becky Holt ruled that state law prevents the group from making changes to the SAU Board of Trustees or pursuing legal action against the nonprofit institution.
“The statute is very clear about who has standing to bring cases against nonprofits, which the university is,” said Ted Edwards, attorney for the SAU Board of Trustees. “The plaintiffs in this case didn’t meet that criteria.”
However, SAVE SAU member John Larkins expressed disappointment with the decision. “This was decided on a technicality and not necessarily on the merits,” he said. “We’re not giving up. We’re here to win, and we’re going to keep trying to do what’s best to save our institution.”
The coalition alleges that board chairman Brian Boulware mishandled funds, including benefiting from a brokerage fee on a $7 million loan and authorizing wire transfers with little oversight. The group claims these actions have placed the university at risk of losing its accreditation and critical federal funding.
The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges is expected to decide SAU’s accreditation status in December, a decision that could significantly impact the university’s future.
In a statement, the SAU Board of Trustees called the lawsuit “baseless” and emphasized its commitment to transparency and accountability. “This decision reaffirms our dedication to governance that serves the greater good of Saint Augustine’s University, our students, and our broader community,” the board wrote.
As SAVE SAU vowed to continue its efforts, the legal setback underscores the challenges facing SAU as it works to secure its accreditation and financial stability. The board says it remains focused on advancing the university’s mission and ensuring its sustainability.