Students accuse NC Christian college of using NDAs to hide sexual assaults

Former students at Excel College, a small Christian institution in western North Carolina, have raised concerns about the school’s handling of sexual assault allegations and its use of non-disparagement agreements to suppress criticism. The college’s honor code requires all students and their parents to sign a non-disparagement agreement, which prohibits making public or private statements that could defame or criticize the institution or its members.

Students who attended Excel say the administration frequently warned them that any expression of concern—whether to another student or a parent—could lead to legal action. One person wrote in a complaint to the North Carolina Board of Governors for Higher Education that students “live in fear” and that the administration has “threatened all the students,” describing the environment as “very like a cult.”

The University of North Carolina System, which licenses postsecondary institutions in the state, has received over a dozen formal complaints about Excel this year. In July, the licensing body contacted the North Carolina Department of Justice, requesting an investigation. The state’s attorney general does not comment on pending investigations before charges are filed.

Through a public records request, The Roys Report obtained letters, phone messages, and supporting documents related to these complaints. One alleges a school leader sent inappropriate pictures to young women. Several complaints describe a 16-year-old female student who was assaulted by a man in his 20s, with the administration allegedly handling the matter internally rather than contacting police. The student was reportedly expelled after the school determined she was at fault.

Students who sought to leave the institution were reportedly told they would have to pay a $4,400 “exit fee.” Parents also received cease-and-desist letters from the school’s lawyers, threatening financially devastating litigation based on “a mere suspicion of criticism.” These actions have raised serious questions about the school’s commitment to justice and transparency.

The situation highlights the need for accountability and the protection of vulnerable individuals. Micah 6:8 calls for justice, mercy, and humility in service, a standard that should guide institutions entrusted with the care of students.

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