Saint Augustine's to consider other accreditation agencies after appeal denied; still no paychecks

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Payroll and financial challenges are the latest in the Saint Augustine's University saga.

This week, Interim President Marcus Burgess told ABC11 the school didn't make its last payroll, which was Feb. 23. That is the second time this month.

He also admitted he is not sure they will make the next one.

Saint Augustine's Interim President Dr. Marcus Burgess discussed the university's ongoing troubles, future in a conversation with ABC11.

A work-study student who wanted to remain anonymous said they were two paychecks behind.

"I feel as if it's very absurd. A lot of students are distraught judging by the fact that we do expect to get paid for our hard work," the student said.

While the crisis has affected some students and their plans at the school, some students said off camera they remain hopeful Saint Augustine's will keep its doors open.

"I love my school, so I really am praying that everything goes good with it and everything goes through," the student said. "I honestly do think that is going to get better because they are already making the steps and doing the things and taking the precautions to get everything on track."

The school is also continuing to fight to return to full accreditation.

The university's accreditation appeal was denied last month by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Board of Trustees.

In a statement following the denial, Burgess said seniors will graduate and financial aid will be honored. He also announced the school will engage in arbitration and adhere to the outlined procedures.

In the meantime, Saint Augustine's will remain an accredited university.

Burgess said if arbitration doesn't go in the school's favor, it's already looking at other accreditation agencies.

Saint Augustine's Interim President said Friday morning that seniors will still graduate and financial aid will be honored.

"We have already done our orientation with TRACS," Burgess said. "We're feverishly working to ensure we can get through the applicant stage to the candidacy stage. If we can get that to happen, then we can receive Title 4 funding."

Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) is an accrediting agency in Virginia.

The president of TRACS confirmed with ABC11 that Saint Augustine's has completed the application orientation.

There are several steps to move from one accreditation agency to another, including an approval letter from the US Department of Education.