A Historic First for SAU Leadership
Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) has made history by appointing Sophie L. Gibson of Atlanta as chair of its Board of Trustees — the first woman ever to hold the position in the school’s 157-year history. The announcement comes at a pivotal moment as the university continues its fight to maintain accreditation.
Gibson takes the gavel from Brian A. Boulware, an SAU alumnus who has served as board chair since 2019. While Boulware is stepping down from the leadership role due to expanding professional responsibilities, he will remain on the board as a trustee.
Boulware’s Tenure and Accomplishments
During his six years as chair, Boulware oversaw several key achievements. Under his leadership, the university completed four years of backlogged audits, stabilized payroll and benefits, and established stronger accountability measures. He also helped secure critical funding and support during one of the most challenging periods in SAU’s history.
In a statement, Gibson praised Boulware’s steady guidance through turbulent times: “His leadership helped keep the university moving forward when it was needed most. We are grateful for his service and look forward to building on the foundation he set.”
Women at the Helm
Gibson’s appointment is not just a milestone for her personally, but a breakthrough moment for representation at the top of SAU leadership. For the first time, both the board chair and vice chair are women. Joining Gibson is Vice Chair V. Lynette Mitchell, a 1989 SAU graduate from Williamstown, New Jersey, who brings decades of professional and community leadership to the role.
This marks a turning point for the university as it leans into inclusive leadership during a period that will define its future.
Accreditation Fight Continues
The leadership transition comes at a critical moment for Saint Augustine’s. In July 2025, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) moved to strip the university of its accreditation, citing financial and governance concerns.
Losing accreditation would have major consequences, including students losing access to federal financial aid and the university’s degrees carrying less weight. However, SAU recently won a legal injunction that allows it to retain accreditation while the case proceeds.
The outcome of this battle will shape the university’s path forward — and Gibson is stepping into leadership at a time when steady, strategic guidance is needed most.
Looking Ahead
In her first remarks as chair, Gibson emphasized optimism and unity: “This moment is about renewal. Our focus as a board is to be strategic, inclusive, and forward-thinking so that Saint Augustine’s continues to be a vital part of the HBCU legacy for generations to come.”
Students, alumni, and supporters are closely watching how SAU navigates the months ahead. With historic leadership in place and accreditation on the line, the university’s resilience will once again be tested.
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