The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) placed Virginia Union University on warning last month. According to a disclosure statement issued on Dec. 9, 2022, the step was taken after a determination of non-compliance with core requirements relating to board governance and financial documentation, as well as several standards that address administrative effectiveness in reporting student outcomes and the university’s financial and program responsibilities under Title IV.

As the recognized regional accrediting body in 11 states, SACSCOC’s works to “assure the educational quality and improve the effectiveness of its member institutions.” SACSCOC President Belle S. Wheelan confirmed that VUU was placed on warning, but also noted that the university is still accredited.

Accreditation is important for several reasons. It ensures the quality of the educational programs colleges and universities deliver. It also is required in order to receive federal funds for higher education, including student financial aid and research funds. Accreditation, or lack thereof, can also affect students’ ability to transfer credits to another institution or gain acceptance into certain graduate schools and professional organizations.

In order to be removed from warning, Dr. Wheelan said that VUU must correct the deficiencies or make satisfactory progress toward compliance. If it does not, the SACSCOC can take further action that could include probation or removal from membership.

Dr. Hakim J. Lukas, VUU’s president and CEO, addressed the warning in a statement issued to the Virginia Union community last month. In it, Dr. Lukas acknowledged that there had been issues with submitting its annual audit on time.

“The University accepts the fairness of this action, and we have committed that all future audits will be filed on time. To accomplish this, we will be expanding our Business Affairs Office to accommodate the University’s significant growth,” his statement reads in part. “In addition, our leadership team is reviewing all internal processes to make sure they demonstrate the speed, rigor, and commitment to compliance that our stakeholders expect.” Dr. Lukas said these steps should help bring VUU into full compliance by its next review in December.