They’re putting those tithes and offerings to good use!
A recent act of generosity is changing the future for 11 graduating seniors at Saint Augustine’s University (SAU). Thanks to a $132,469 donation from the historic Alfred Street Baptist Church in Alexandria, Virginia, the students will now walk across the commencement stage debt-free, ABC 11 News reports.
Initially, the university informed the graduating class that students with outstanding tuition balances would be unable to participate in the May commencement ceremony. While many students were able to settle their accounts with the support of SAU alumni chapters, 11 of the 25 graduating seniors still required assistance.
“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.”
Founded in 1803, Alfred Street Baptist Church has a rich history of supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). In 2019, the church raised $150,000 in one weekend to eliminate the account balances of 34 graduating seniors at Howard University and donated another $50,000 to Bennett College. The connection to SAU was strengthened through the efforts of DMV-area alumni Gilbert (Class of ’76) and Carolyn Knowles (Class of ’77), who helped bridge the church with their alma mater.
“This is what ministry looks like,” said Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley, senior pastor of Alfred Street Baptist Church. “We believe in investing in students, in HBCUs, and in a future where financial hardship should never be a barrier to graduation.”
The funds will be delivered before the May 3rd ceremony, allowing those 11 seniors to graduate on time. Representatives from Alfred Street Baptist Church are expected to attend the commencement to celebrate the occasion.
This gift comes at a critical moment for the university. Saint Augustine’s has faced ongoing financial and accreditation challenges. In March, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) denied SAU’s appeal to maintain accreditation. However, the school is moving forward with a 90-day arbitration process to ensure all May graduates will receive accredited degrees.
“For the wider public, this story sends a powerful message: even in the face of adversity, collective acts of generosity and faith can spark change, support institutions that matter, and uplift young people poised to become future leaders,” the university shared in a statement.
With caps and gowns ready and burdens lifted, the Class of 2025 will walk into the next chapter with one less weight to carry—thanks to a village that believes in their promise.
Cover photo: Historic Alfred Street Baptist Church Donates Over $132K to Clear Debt for Saint Augustine’s Graduating Seniors/Photo credit: Saint Augustine University