Graduates Reflect Resilience, Academic Excellence, and the Enduring Strength of Falcon Nation

Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) proudly recognizes its graduates from the 2025-2026 academic year whose perseverance, resilience, and determination exemplify the strength of the Falcon community. These graduates, consisting of three Fall 2025 graduates and one Spring 2026 graduate, all earned accredited degrees. Their accomplishments reflect extraordinary perseverance, resilience, and determination during a pivotal period in the university’s history.

“These graduates have demonstrated remarkable courage and determination in pursuing their educational goals,” said Sophie Gibson, Chair of the SAU Board of Trustees. “Their success reflects the strength of their character, the support of the Falcon community, and the enduring mission of Saint Augustine’s University to transform lives through education. We celebrate their achievements and look forward to the many ways they will contribute to their communities and professions.”

The graduates, Breann Bannister, Nazir Imhotep, Israel Pennerman, and Nicholas Black, each overcame unique personal, academic, and institutional challenges to reach this important milestone. Their accomplishments reflect not only individual achievement but also the enduring strength of the Saint Augustine’s University community.

“These graduates embody the resilience, perseverance, and commitment to excellence that have defined SAU for more than 150 years,” said SAU Interim President Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples. “While their paths to graduation were not without obstacles, they remained focused on their goals and completed their accredited degree programs. We are incredibly proud of each of them and look forward to seeing the impact they will make in their professions and communities.”

Breann Bannister, ‘26
A native of The Bahamas, Bannister earned her degree in Elementary Education after navigating numerous personal and global challenges, including Hurricane Dorian, the COVID-19 pandemic, motherhood, postpartum depression, and significant disruptions to her educational journey. Through perseverance, faith, and determination, she remained committed to her goal of becoming an educator and completed her degree. She credits her children, family, professors, and mentors for helping her reach the finish line.

Nazir Imhotep, ‘25
A Sport Management graduate from Chesapeake, Virginia, Imhotep distinguished himself both academically and athletically. A member of SAU’s track and field team, he competed under Olympian Coach Bershawn Jackson and proudly represented the university at national competitions, including the Razorback Invitational. He also maintained Dean’s List honors, earned the Meritorious Scholarship throughout his academic career, and served as Marketing Director for Residential Life, where he created innovative student engagement initiatives.

Israel Pennerman, ‘25
Originally from Nassau, The Bahamas, Pennerman earned a Bachelor of Science in Public Health Science with a 3.7 GPA. Inspired by environmental and public health challenges in his home country, he developed a passion for disease prevention and biomedical research. Through research opportunities, mentorship from Dr. Tyrell Carr, and participation in programs at North Carolina State University, Pennerman built a strong academic foundation that has already led to acceptance into the Master of Health Science in Biomedical Science program at Grand Valley State University.

Nicholas Black, ‘25
An Exercise Science graduate from Fayetteville, North Carolina, Black transferred to Saint Augustine’s University in Fall 2023 and quickly embraced opportunities to grow academically and professionally. His studies deepened his interest in athletic performance, injury prevention, and health promotion. Following graduation, Black will begin Army ROTC Cadet training at Duke University while pursuing a master’s degree in Kinesiology and Recreation Management at North Carolina Central University.

Together, these graduates represent the perseverance and determination that define the Falcon spirit. Their accomplishments serve as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, dedication, hard work, and faith can transform challenges into opportunities.

As SAU continues implementing strategic initiatives designed to strengthen its future, the success of these graduates stands as a testament to the value of an SAU education and the enduring impact of its faculty, staff, and supporters.

SAU congratulates Breann Bannister, Nazir Imhotep, Israel Pennerman, and Nicholas Black on earning their degrees and wishes them continued success in their future endeavors.