Saint Augustine's University employees without paychecks again
Employees at Saint Augustine's University in Raleigh are waiting for multiple late paychecks as the school struggles to retain its accreditation.
"Four weeks of missed pay roll. we missed one, this will be the second," Marcus Burgess, St Augustine's University Interim President said.
Paychecks for Saint Augustine's employees were missed Feb. 23. Paychecks were due again on Friday, March 8, but Burgess, told employees the checks would be delayed again.
"Please accept my sincere regret and apologies for once again having to communicate to you the extended delay of your paychecks February 23, and now, March 8, 2024. We will continue to work on both short and long-term solutions to ensure payment of funds that are due to you," Burgess wrote.
WRAL News on Monday sat down for a one-on-one interview with Burgess, who is leading the fight to keep Saint Augustine's University open and accredited after financial issues caused the HBCU to lose its appeal to keep its accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
When WRAL reporter Matt Talhelm asked Burgess if payroll would met this week, Burgess replied, "Oh boy. It has to be, because four weeks of missed payroll ... we have to ensure we pay our people. Goodwill goes only a short way."
WRAL News previously obtained an email sent from the office of the president explaining the delay in Friday's paychecks.
The email reads, "Our current financial situation, or lack thereof, has significantly hindered the operations across our campus ... we will find a solution and implement measures to ensure the stability and financial security of the university moving forward."
Employees who didn't want to speak on camera told WRAL News this year is not the first time they haven't been paid on schedule.
In two pay periods in November and December, the university sent out short messages alerting staff about delayed deposits.
In December, Burgess told WRAL News, "From a financial standpoint, it’s dire times right now. We’ve had to make some tough decisions on who we pay and how we pay them.”
Saint Augustine's University is fighting to keep its accreditation, in part because of such financial troubles.
The 157-year-old private Historically Black College/University has been criticized by ousted former leaders over the last few months.
Regarding the paycheck delays, an email from university leadership indicates Saint Augustine's is "on the brink" of finalizing deals involving its land and is waiting for those funds to come in.
"We have a lot of supporters out there-the CEO of goodwill is providing 10,000 in the way of food lion gift cards. we've had other communities and bring gas cards. we're so thankful we're blessed," Burgess said.
In light of potential financial challenges faced by employees at Saint Augustine’s University who have been impacted by delayed paychecks, Military Missions in Action (MMIA) is fortunate to be able to assist employees who are veterans or family members of a veteran.
"We recognize the sacrifices made by military veterans and their families, and it is heart breaking to know that some may be experiencing financial challenges while contributing to the educational mission of Saint Augustine’s University," said Greg Gebhardt, Executive Director at Military Missions In Action. "Our organization is committed to supporting these veterans during their time of need, ensuring they receive assistance while navigating these difficult times."
