Paine College in Augusta is in a fight to regain accreditation after the Southern Association of College and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) denied Paine’s appeal of it’s earlier loss of membership in the agency.
SACSCOC removed Paine last summer for failing to meet standards for financial resources and stability and control of sponsored research and external funds.
The 133-year-old historic black college has instructed its attorneys to file a lawsuit in the United States District Court seeking an order to delay the action and compelling the accrediting agency to restore its accreditation.
“Our students, faculty, and staff should know that Paine will take every action to maintain its accreditation,” said Atlanta attorney Michael Thurmond, who is Paine College Board’s chair-elect.
“In the meantime, our students, faculty, and staff should know that Paine will take every action necessary to maintain its accreditation during the pendency of this lawsuit. Paine College family and supporters should know that we are exploring all alternatives.”
The accreditation is important because the school is not eligible to participate in federal education programs such as financial aid without it. About 95 percent of the school’s students receive financial aid.
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