University of Saint Augustine, Shaw | HBCU advocates have strong reaction to meeting discussing OR, Shaw merger

RALEIGH, NC (WTVD) — There’s a new backlash as the fallout continues from that letter containing the bombshell allegations released by the president of the Saint Augustine University Board.

Eugene Myrick is a Shaw University graduate and mayoral candidate. He is passionate about many things and HBCU, Shaw University, is at the top of that list.

“I tell people I went to Saint Shaw. We’re CIAA rivals. If I wasn’t at Shaw, I was at Saint Aug. It’s right down the block,” he said.

Myrick is concerned that Dr. Paulette Dillard, the president of Shaw University, is also the president of the Downtown Raleigh Alliance.

“I think this is just a favor to developers who want the Shaw University land,” he said.

He said Shaw University’s national president of the National Alumni Association has resigned.

Saint Augustine President Brian Boulware wrote a letter in response to a lawsuit saying leaders from SAU and Shaw met with prominent Raleigh business leaders, including the owner of a local television station.

WRAL confirmed that among the local businessmen at the meeting was the CEO of the parent company, Capitol Broadcasting Co.

IN CONNECTION WITH | Development prospects around Shaw, Saint Augustine draw mixed reactions

Boulware claimed the CEO said, “Raleigh doesn’t need two black universities: We need the two to merge.”

“What level of relationship do you have with someone who could sit in the room with you and talk about something that you’re supposed to love and be passionate about in that way?” Myrick said. “The level of disrespect is unheard of.”

In a statement to ABC11, immediate past president of the Raleigh-Apex NAACP, Gerald Givens Jr., said he was surprised by the comments.

“Both HBCUs have had a crucial impact on expanding educational opportunities for all students, especially African American students,” Givens wrote. “Why not focus on developing a market that encompasses both schools instead of gentrification?”

Orage Quarles, former editor of the News & Observer, was present at the meeting. He told ABC11 he participated because he cares about the community.

Capitol Broadcasting Company, the Downtown Raleigh Alliance and Shaw University have yet to respond to requests for comment.