Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) today affirmed a renewed standard of leadership, accountability, and stewardship as the University prepares for the 2026–2027 academic year. At a time when the protection of SAU’s mission, legacy, and future requires focused and disciplined governance, the Board of Trustees—under the leadership of Sophie Gibson, Chair of the Board of Trustees and the first woman in SAU’s history to hold that position—has taken deliberate actions to strengthen governance, ensure leadership continuity, and establish a clear framework for institutional renewal grounded in responsibility, transparency, and long-term sustainability.

“SAU has taken meaningful steps to strengthen governance, institutional leadership, and planning,” said Sophie Gibson, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “We are building a Board with the experience and discipline required for this moment. Our focus is on restoring stability, rebuilding trust, and positioning SAU for sustainable success. We welcome continued engagement from our students, faculty, staff, alumni, donors, faith partners, community leaders, institutional partners, and supporters of all kinds as we work together to secure a strong future for this historic institution.”

Over the past months, the Board of Trustees has implemented governance enhancements designed to improve accountability, financial oversight, and strategic leadership. These actions include the addition of trustees with expertise in finance, higher education administration, organizational leadership, and institutional transformation—capabilities aligned with the University’s current operational and strategic priorities.

As part of this renewed direction, the Board has articulated a vision to reestablish Saint Augustine’s University as a model for effective board–president collaboration, underscoring the role of strong governance structures in supporting institutional stability, accountability, and long-term success.

In December, the Board of Trustees appointed Dr. Jennie Ward-Robinson as Interim President to ensure executive leadership continuity during a period of institutional transition. The Board continues to exercise its fiduciary and governance oversight responsibilities as the University advances its recovery and renewal efforts.

Saint Augustine’s University remains operational and accredited. Remote classes began on January 14, and academic programs and essential student services continue without interruption. Protecting academic continuity, maintaining accreditation, and ensuring students can progress toward degree completion remain core institutional priorities.

As part of its recovery strategy, SAU leadership is advancing comprehensive financial stabilization measures and a long-term sustainability plan with support from Self-Help, a financial partner, as well as additional institutional, financial, and advisory partners providing assistance across financial, operational, and strategic areas. These partnerships are focused on strengthening internal financial systems, improving operational controls, and laying a foundation for long-term institutional health. As a matter of University policy, SAU does not comment on specific financial transactions, loan terms, or creditor negotiations.

Board leadership emphasized that the actions underway represent an important turning point for Saint Augustine’s University—one grounded in transparency, responsible stewardship, and a renewed commitment to serving students and preserving and strengthening SAU’s 159-year legacy.

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