Saint Augustine’s University has made history by appointing Sophie L. Gibson as its first Black woman chair of the Board of Trustees. This groundbreaking appointment comes as the historically black college and university (HBCU) fights to maintain its accreditation status through ongoing legal challenges.
Gibson, a business leader from Atlanta, will replace Brian A. Boulware, who stepped down after leading the board since 2019. The leadership change marks a significant moment for the university as it works to create stability during turbulent times.
Historic Leadership Transition Creates New Era for HBCU
The appointment of Gibson creates another historic milestone for Saint Augustine’s University. Both the top two positions on the Board of Trustees will now be held by women. V. Lynette Mitchell, a 1989 graduate of SAU, will serve as vice chair alongside Gibson.
Boulware expressed confidence in the new leadership during his departure. “It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of this historic institution during a time of great challenge and transformation,” he said. “I am proud of the work we have accomplished together and confident in the leadership of Chair Gibson and the Board to guide SAU into a bright future.”
Mitchell echoed the optimistic tone about the university’s direction. “We are turning the page to an exciting new era for SAU—one guided by a clear strategic direction and a renewed Falcon spirit,” she stated.
Federal Injunction Provides Critical Accreditation Relief
Earlier in August, Saint Augustine’s University secured a crucial federal injunction that allows the institution to maintain its accreditation status. This legal victory came as the university challenges an earlier ruling by its accrediting body that threatened to strip the school’s accreditation.
The injunction represents a significant win for the university and its students. Interim President Marcus H. Burgess emphasized the importance of this ruling for the institution’s future. “This is a tremendous win for Saint Augustine’s University and, most importantly, for our students,” Burgess said in a news release. “Thanks to our supporters, we will open our (virtual) doors on Sept. 2 as an accredited institution, just as we promised.”
The legal protection allows the university to continue operating while defending its accreditation status in court. This ensures students can continue their education without interruption during the legal proceedings.
Strategic Fundraising Campaign Supports Operations and Legal Defense
Saint Augustine’s University has launched the “Believe in SAU: A Falcon Is Not an Ordinary Bird” campaign to raise critical funds. The campaign supports both daily operations and the university’s legal defense efforts against the accreditation challenges.
Donors have multiple options for supporting the university’s mission. They can contribute to the general campaign fund or donate directly to Alston & Bird L.L.P., the university’s legal team handling the accreditation case.
Gibson acknowledged the community’s support in securing the injunction. “We are immensely grateful for the outpouring of support from our alumni and friends,” she said. “Their commitment ensured we had the resources to take this crucial legal step to protect our students and our mission.”
New Leadership Embraces Bold Vision for University Future
Under Gibson’s leadership, the Board of Trustees plans to implement a strategic approach to strengthen the university’s impact. The new chair emphasized honoring past contributions while moving forward with ambitious plans.
“We are deeply grateful for the steady leadership of Trustee Boulware during challenging times,” Gibson said. “As we move into this new chapter, we honor their contributions while embracing a bold, strategic path forward that will strengthen our impact for generations to come.”
Gibson also highlighted the significance of the legal victory beyond its immediate benefits. “This injunction is not just a legal reprieve; it is a testament to the power of the Falcon community,” she explained. “It allows us to continue educating our students without interruption as we vigorously defend SAU’s future in court, and it shows that we soar higher when we soar together.”
The combination of new leadership and legal protection provides Saint Augustine’s University with an opportunity to rebuild and strengthen its position in higher education. The historic appointments signal the institution’s commitment to diverse leadership while addressing the challenges ahead.
