Saint Augustine's University
Raleigh, NC
Quick Facts
“Veritas vos liberabit”(The truth will set you free)
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Saint Augustine's University
Saint Augustine's University: A resilient HBCU fostering opportunity and excellence since 1867.
Saint Augustine's University, nestled in Raleigh, North Carolina, stands as a beacon of opportunity and resilience. Founded by Episcopal Church clergy in 1867, this private historically Black Christian college was established with a profound mission: to educate formerly enslaved Black people and to serve first-generation college students and those who might otherwise not have access to higher education. Embodying its motto, "Veritas vos liberabit" (The truth will set you free), SAU is dedicated to empowering its community through knowledge and personal growth.
The university's journey has been marked by both challenge and unwavering commitment. From its early days as Saint Augustine's Normal School, weathering a devastating fire in 1883 with remarkable speed in resuming instruction, it steadily evolved. Over the decades, it transformed from a normal school, to a junior college, and finally a four-year institution, Saint Augustine's College in 1928, achieving accreditation in 1942. Its curriculum expanded from industrial training to a robust liberal arts focus, designed to prepare students for a dynamic world. Pioneering Black leadership also shaped its path, with its first Black president appointed in 1947.
Today, Saint Augustine's University is known for fostering an environment where students can thrive both academically and personally. While facing recent challenges, its historical commitment to its students remains central. The university boasts a storied athletics program, particularly renowned for its achievements in track and field. Furthermore, its innovative spirit is evident through its Department of Communications, which operates both a radio station (WAUG 750-AM) and a television station (WAUG-LD), providing unique hands-on experience. SAU continues its vital role in uplifting and educating its diverse student body, upholding its legacy of providing transformative educational opportunities.
Key Highlights
- ✦Founded in 1867 by Episcopal Church clergy to educate formerly enslaved Black people.
- ✦Motto: "Veritas vos liberabit" (The truth will set you free).
- ✦Historic mission focused on first-generation and underserved college students.
- ✦Home to a highly successful athletics program, with notable achievements in track and field.
- ✦Established St. Agnes' Hospital and Training School for Nurses in 1896, a primary Black healthcare facility.
- ✦Operates its own radio station (WAUG 750-AM) and television station (WAUG-LD).
- ✦Evolved from a normal school to a university, achieving four-year college status in 1928 and university status in 2012.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
1 notable schools within Saint Augustine's University
St. Agnes' Hospital and Training School for Nurses
Opened in 1896, it became one of the primary Black healthcare facilities between Richmond and Atlanta, providing vital medical services and professional training.
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