North Carolina’s Bennett College for Women, plagued by years of declining enrollment and financial hardship today announced its intent to appeal a decision from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools’ Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to revoke its accreditation, while other institutions facing similar money woes were reaffirmed by the oversight agency.
Bennett officials told the Greensboro News & Record that the school will remain fully accredited during its appeal period, which will give the college until Feb. 18 to show additional proof of financial stability.
“The door’s not closed all the way yet,” (Bennett President Phyllis Worthy) Dawkins said.
In March, Dr. Dawkins discussed the college’s fundraising efforts, which were bolstered in July when Bennett was named among a handful of institutions to receive a deferment of loan payment obligations to the U.S. Department of Education.
Saint Augustine’s University, which a few months ago was at the center of controversy when leaked executive documents revealed strained revenue outcomes and disagreement among university trustees about the future of the institution, was removed from probationary status during the SACSCOC annual meeting.
University officials credited the Episcopal Church for its support and advocacy during the review period.
“I am extremely pleased that Saint Augustine’s University has been removed from probationary status,” said Dr. Everett B. Ward, Saint Augustine’s president. “The SACSCOC decision underscores that the SAU turnaround strategy with support from alumni, faculty, students and community partners is moving the University forward.”
“I would like to especially highlight and thank the Episcopal Church for its unwavering support. From Presiding Bishop Michael Curry’s letters and encouragement to the Church’s HBCU Committee and their consultants’ foundational, administrative, and advisory support, and to all who offered gifts of prayer as well as financial contributions.”
Florida A&M University, Johnson C. Smith University, Tuskegee University, and Virginia State University were granted full reaffirmation during the SACSCOC annual meeting.
“This is a testament to the hard work and preparation of our faculty, staff, and students,” said FAMU President Larry Robinson. “I would like to thank SACSCOC, FAMU’s Board of Trustees, our SACSCOC Leadership Team and all stakeholders in Tallahassee and campuses in Crestview, Jacksonville, Miami, Orlando and Tampa for their support throughout this rigorous process. This is an example of the collaborative spirit and great achievement, and outcome that we want each and every time.”
“Johnson C. Smith University has been a beacon in higher education for 151 years,” said JCSU President Clarence D. Armbrister. “We are gratified the quality of our educational programs, faculty and leadership has again been recognized and that our accreditation has been reaffirmed.”
“This is outstanding news and a testament to the commitment and teamwork demonstrated by Tuskegee University’s collective campus community,” President Lily D. McNair said. “Maintaining accreditation validates for our students, alumni, and partners that Tuskegee is committed to providing high-quality academic programs, and to adhering to strict institutional standards related to integrity, effective governance, financial sustainability, and appropriate student support services.”
“Accreditation is a very important confirmation of a university’s academic stature and quality of academic programs and student services,” said VSU President Makola M. Abdullah. “This affirmation speaks volumes of the dedication of our Board of Visitors, administration, faculty, and staff in providing our students with a quality, transformative education. I commend and applaud Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Donald E. Palm, III, Associate Vice Provost for Academic Affairs and Executive Director for Institutional Effectiveness Tia Minnis, Ph.D., their team and the Trojan community for all that they do for Virginia State University.”
Interesting Benedict College has the same if not better financial situation than St. Augustine and St. Augustine got removed from probation. Definitely some inconsistencies with the way they evaluate accreditation.
I think you meant Bennett because Benedict is a totally different college that is located in South Carolina.
Definitely BENNETT and not BENEDICT. Have to make sure there’s no confusion as some folks were worried about trouble down on South Carolina.
Not necessarily financial issues can keep a school from receiving accreditation. There could be inconsistencies in educational requirements of the faculty in different areas. The required ratio of doctorate degrees may not have been met. Inadequate institutional control of programs may be an issue. Internal controls may be lacking. I know a school that lost accreditation because a member of the board of trustees lied to SACS. There are a lot of singular things that can keep a school from accreditation or it can be a combination of lots of small things.
You mean Bennett.
I think you mean Bennett… Benedicts is in South Carolina
We worked hard to fix the deficienies. Alumni gave a lot to get us through. I hope Benedict resolves their issues too. Don’t bash us because we worked hard. I will pray Benedict comes through too. Dr. Johnelle Sherald, Nat. Alumni Asso. Vice President and SC resident.
St. Augustine’s alumni along with faculty contributed substantial funds during the probationary period.
Bennett and Benedict are two different schools
We at Benedict College will be praying for our Sister HBCU… Bennett College ~ Assistant VP of Communications and Marketing for Benedict College
DuWarn Porter. It’s Bennett, an all women’s school in Greensboro, not Benedict in SC. What’s your issues against Saint Augustine’s University. This is one of HBCUS’s major problems, HATERS like you. Support, don’t tear down, write a check.
I salute President Ward, the Trustees, Alumni, Friends, and supporters for this exceptionally good news. And, though I am not Episcopalian, I salute the church for its leadership, commitment, and it’s unwavering support of his institution. We need all of our HBCUs so let’s all continue to stand up for them and sacrifice for them as they are as necessary today as they were many years ago.
Clearly the article said Bennett College ! Not Benedict College !
Curtis, I agree. Thanks
Sheila Stocker, SAU alumni
Not again😞.
Say it again. I am a proud alum of Saint Augustine’s. Fuck what ole girl has to say about saint aug just be happy for us or don’t have a opinion at all.
Bennett was very biased with ending my job assignment there at Bennett College. I hate this for the Black Beautiful women who are Alumae and for the students who are currently enrolled. Please watch my video on how Bennett challenge my livelihood unfairly
https://youtu.be/mSMkN_QIcTw
BENNETT
Too bad they don’t teach comportment/eloquence 101
I listened to about six minutes of your video before quitting. Work on learning how to communicate without all of the profanity. Be blessed.