(Black PR Wire) At a time when many small private colleges and historically black colleges/universities (HBCUs) are fighting for survival, one church’s act of kindness shines as an example of justice, hope, and the enduring importance of one of North Carolina’s HBCUs. Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) is thrilled to announce a generous gift of $132,469 from Alfred Street Baptist Church of Alexandria, Virginia, to eliminate the outstanding cumulative four-year student debt of 11 of 25 graduating seniors in the Class of 2025. The donation – over $130,000 – will be received by SAU before this year’s commencement on May 3rd, ensuring these seniors can graduate debt-free. In a stirring show of community partnership, representatives from the historic church will attend SAU’s commencement ceremony to celebrate with the students and personally congratulate the new graduates whose burdens they helped lift.
“This act of grace by Alfred Street Baptist Church is nothing short of transformative for our students and our institution,” said SAU Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. “We are immensely grateful for this demonstration of faith and partnership. It not only lifts a tremendous burden off our deserving students but also inspires our entire SAU community. This donation is a shining example of how faith and collaboration can empower our students to step confidently into their futures. It renews our hope and underscores the bright future for SAU.”
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