VIRGINIA — The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges has placed Mary Baldwin University on probation for good cause for 12 months. This action follows the university's failure to meet the commission's financial responsibility standard.

Probation for good cause represents the most serious public sanction the commission can impose, aside from revoking an institution's accreditation. Mary Baldwin University has been under monitoring for two years prior to this probation.

Todd Telemeco, President of Mary Baldwin University, addressed the situation in a statement on June 26. "Mary Baldwin takes pride in its progress and is committed to complying with all of the accreditor's standards," Telemeco said. He detailed actions taken during the fiscal year 2026, including implementing expenditure controls, reorganizing operations due to a reduced workforce, strengthening fundraising efforts, and investing in new revenue-generating programs. "In fiscal year 2026, the university has implemented strong controls on expenditures, reorganized operations in response to a smaller workforce, strengthened its fundraising efforts, and invested in the development of new revenue-generating programs and activities," Telemeco said.

Telemeco also outlined future plans, stating, "We intend to continue and accelerate this work in fiscal year 2027 as we focus on identifying and growing revenue streams while maintaining disciplined, prioritized planning, spending, and investment." The commission's board will conduct a review of Mary Baldwin University's status in June 2027.

The university stated that students' degree and enrollment status, as well as financial aid, will not be affected by the probation. Accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges is necessary for institutions in the southern United States. The probation signifies that Mary Baldwin University's financial stability has been deemed insufficient by its accrediting body. The commission's decision to review the university's status in June 2027 establishes a timeline for compliance.