Saint Augustine’s University, the nation’s oldest historically Black Episcopal university, will retain its accreditation following a unanimous decision by an arbitration panel to reverse a previous ruling, school officials announced recently.

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) had moved to revoke SAU’s accreditation in late 2023, which would have made students ineligible for federal financial aid. The university appealed, and the decision was put on hold during arbitration.

“The unanimous reversal by the arbitration committee rightfully corrects the injustice inflicted upon SAU by SACSCOC’s initial ruling,” said Brian Boulware, chairman of the SAU board of trustees, in a statement.

Despite the reversal, SAU remains on probation and faces significant financial challenges, including IRS tax liens totaling nearly $10 million according to a report from North Carolina Public Radio.

The university, founded in 1867, also has experienced recent leadership turnover. Interim President Marcus Burgess was appointed after the previous president was dismissed in November for undisclosed reasons.

SAU officials affirm their commitment to welcoming students for the fall semester, but enrollment impacts remain unclear following the publicized accreditation issues.

Athletic Director Dr. J. Lin Dawson emphasized the university’s dedication to both academic and athletic success.

“SAU Athletics is committed to winning championships, graduating student-athletes, and developing them as leaders,” Dawson said in “The Bird’s Eye View,” the university’s e-newsletter.

The university has suspended its football program for the 2024-25 academic year but plans to maintain its other 11 NCAA Division II sports and compete in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association.

The SACSCOC will review SAU’s status again at its December board meeting.