$132K donation erases debt for 11 Saint Augustine's University seniors ahead of commencement

The debt of 11 graduating seniors at Saint Augustine’s University has been paid thanks to a $132,000 donation from Alfred Street Church.

The university told the entire graduating class that students with unpaid tuition balances could not participate in the commencement ceremony.

University leaders said students went on to write letters about their financial struggles which caught the attention of some Saint Augustine’s alumni, including members of the Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia.

The university credits alumni and Alfred Street Baptist Church members Gilbert and Carolyn Knowles with making it happen.

“I got a little emotional about how happy they were that this opportunity has come about to allow them to graduate,” the Knowles said. “They are very thankful, very, very heartwarming stories that they have. They have remained steadfast and stuck with SAU throughout all of the different issues we’ve experienced over the past year and a half.”

The donation comes as the university faces staggering financial debt and loss of accreditation. Friday, the university’s board chair requested the SBI to investigate the possible mishandling of covid-19 relief money at the university.

Despite those challenges, the Knowles’ said it was important that the students get this opportunity. Members of Alfred Street Baptist Church are set to attend the university’s commencement ceremonies Friday, May 3.