The Appeal Process

The administrative appeal hearing through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) was held on August 22. St. Andrews was notified that the appeal to overturn the June decision by SACS had been denied.

The response from St. Andrews was to file a lawsuit in federal court in the Middle District of North Carolina on August 24. The lawsuit asks for the court to reverse this decision, to stop SACS from removing our accreditation, and to award monetary damages for any losses that the College may suffer as a result of this decision. Federal District Court Judge Carlton Tilley heard opening arguments on Wednesday, Aug. 29. On Thursday, Aug. 30, with the agreement of the parties, Judge Tilley ordered St. Andrews reinstated into full membership in SACS until further order of the court. This action by the parties and Judge Tilley means our college will continue to be accredited as the case continues. Importantly and as specified in the order, St. Andrews students remain eligible to receive state and federal financial aid and full credit for their course work.

After reviewing documents, hearing additional testimony and listening to legal arguments, Judge Tilley decided on Wednesday, Sept. 5 to grant the college's Motion for a Preliminary Injunction. This extends the Order entered last week so that it will last throughout the lawsuit.

Proceedings in this matter will be scheduled at the discretion of the court.

The resolution of the lawsuit could take months or even years to complete.

 While the lawsuit is pending, St. Andrews is fully accredited.