'My bank account is at $59 right now' Saint Augustine's University employees struggle to make ends meet after not getting paid again

As Saint Augustine's University navigates through financial challenges, employees shared their concerns with WRAL News as they continue waiting for multiple paychecks.

One employee said she's used money from her savings, and she's behind on rent due to the missed paychecks.

"I haven't been able to buy essentials like groceries; haven't been able to buy basic stuff like toilet paper," she said.

The university employee asked to remain anonymous out of fear of retaliation from the school's governing board.

Two former St. Augustine’s University employees, former president Dr. Christine McPhail and football coach Howard Feggins, both claim they were fired for speaking out against the school.

Former Saint Augustine's football coach files lawsuit, alleges he was intimidated into silence before firing

Saint Augustine's University missed paychecks on Feb. 23. Paychecks were due again on Friday, March 8, but interim president Marcus Burgess told employees the checks would be delayed again.

"My bank account is at $59 right now," the university employee said, checking her account while speaking with WRAL News.

Employees at the school previously told WRAL News the university missed paychecks in November and December as well.

A student in a work-study program at SAU said she's trying to make ends meet despite the situation.

“Many students have questions regarding when payment should be expected for rent, student fees, and emergencies,” the student said.

Saint Augustine's students, parents frustrated over school's financial issues

WRAL News has reached out university leadership on how many employees are impacted by the cash flow problem and how soon they can expect paychecks.

Based on previous reporting, the university has hired a financial consulting team and is meeting with the IRS and others whom the university owes.

The financial troubles the university faces has put the school's accreditation at risk, with some concerned the school could shut down.

"It's a little unsettling, I'll be honest," SAU alum Olivia Huckaby said.

Burgess admits the school is in a "very dire" situation, but said it will not shut down even as it fights to maintain its accreditation.

Huckaby said she and other alumni are doing what they can to help the financial situation.

"All alumni chapters for the university are running the '$18.67 Challenge,'" she explained. "You can donate $18.67, which is the year we were founded, to help support those fundrasing efforts."

The university is up to $224,182 of its $5 million goal. You can donate to the campaign here.