Dr. Marcus Burgess, interim president of Saint Augustine’s University, resigns

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — Saint Augustine’s University announced late Sunday that Interim President Dr. Marcus Burgess has resigned.

The Board of Trustees revealed on social media that Burgess submitted his resignation “for personal reasons” on July 16, and that it took effect Sunday.

“We extend our sincere gratitude to Dr. Burgess for his leadership and service during a pivotal period in the university’s history,” the Board said.

Dr. Verjanis A. Peoples, Provost of SAU, will carry out the duties of the president until further notice, the Trustees also said.

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“Dr. Peoples brings extensive academic and administrative experience and will provide steady leadership and continuity during this transition,” the Board wrote.

Earlier this month, the embattled university announced that an injunction in favor of SAU would allow it to maintain its accreditation and begin classes as scheduled.

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That injunction meant that for now, SAU will remain a fully accredited institution.

“This is a tremendous win for Saint Augustine’s University and, most importantly, for our students,” Burgess said at the time. “Thanks to our supporters, we will open our (virtual) doors on Sept. 2 as an accredited institution, just as we promised. We have said all along that we will stop at nothing to maintain our accreditation and continue serving our scholars – and we meant it.”