Saint Augustine's University logo

Saint Augustine's University

Raleigh, NC

private nonprofitHBCUgraduate

Quick Facts

Veritas vos liberabit(The truth will set you free)

1867
Founded
Private historically black college
Type
766
Total Students
$17K
Tuition (In-State)
$17K
Tuition (Out-State)
$18K
Avg Net Price
59%
Acceptance Rate
33%
Graduation Rate
6-year
53%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Jennie Ward-Robinson (interim)

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

1867
Incorporated as St. Augustine's Normal School and Collegiate Institute on July 19
1868
Opened for classes on January 13
1883
All classroom buildings destroyed by fire, instruction resumed within a week
1893
Renamed Saint Augustine's School
1896
St. Agnes' Hospital and Training School for Nurses opened
1924
Became a junior college
1928
Incorporated as the four-year Saint Augustine's College
1947
Harold Leonard Trigg became the first Black president
1983
Began operating radio station WAUG 750-AM
2012
Officially became St. Augustine's University
🏛️
159 Years
of Excellence

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.

Leadership

Jennie Ward-Robinson (interim)
President

Data from Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at Saint Augustine's University

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search