Virginia Union University has regained full accreditation after spending two years on probation, closing a period marked by scrutiny of its financial and operational practices.

University officials announced Wednesday that the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges reaffirmed VUU’s status and cited the school for “exceptional financial health and operational effectiveness” during its review. 

“Reaffirmation is not simply a milestone,” VUU President and CEO Hakim J. Lucas said in an announcement of the reaffirmation to the university community. “It is a validation of the countless hours of work, diligence, documentation, alignment, assessment and collective resolve that you have invested in this process. I extend my deepest appreciation to all who contributed to demonstrating our compliance, telling our story and showcasing the transformation we have built together.” 

SACSCOC placed the university on probationary status in 2023 after monitoring the university for compliance with accreditation standards for two years. The probation marked the final step before accreditation could be removed entirely, which would impact VUU’s eligibility for federal student loans and the validity of its degrees. 

For VUU Student Government Association President Ivi Armstrong-Edlow, the announcement was a “joyous occasion,” one she’s seen celebrated by the other students on campus. 

“The standards that were challenged have been addressed,” she said, “and that should reinforce anyone’s confidence in Virginia Union University’s stability and future direction.” 

Armstrong-Edlow, an Entrepreneurial Management major from Newport News, transferred to VUU in spring 2024 after officials outlined the university’s efforts to maintain its accreditation. 

VUU SGA members, including Armstrong-Edlow, took part in SACSCOC’s evaluation and, during panel interviews, offered feedback on the campus’ strengths, areas for improvement and their own experiences. 

Since transferring, Armstrong-Edlow said the university has made progress not only in addressing SACSCOC’s concerns but also in meeting student needs, including adding a Sports Management minor she can pursue alongside her English minor. 

With VUU’s probation behind it, Armstrong-Edlow said she hopes the university will continue to improve. She plans to promote transparency among students, faculty, staff and university leaders in her role as president. 

“[I will be] helping the students, the faculty, the staff and everyone come together to remember that, yes, while we may be off of the probation, that we have to continue to move forward and progress or else we can go right back to where we were,” Armstrong-Edlow said. 

SACSCOC did not respond to requests for comment by press time.