UNC System Asks NC Department of Justice to Investigate Black Mountain Christian College Over Student Complaints

The University of North Carolina System has asked the North Carolina Department of Justice to investigate Excel College, a small Christian institution near Black Mountain, following a surge of complaints. The request, detailed in a July 20 letter from Brad Trahan, senior associate general counsel with the university system, cites concerns about “potential unlawful misconduct, fraud, misrepresentation, and otherwise engaging in unconscionable behavior.” The complaints, obtained by Asheville Watchdog through public records requests, include allegations of student safety issues, academic integrity concerns, and governance problems.

According to the letter, the complaints allege that Excel College pressured students into signing non-disparagement agreements, threatened legal action, and misrepresented its academic programs. The UNC System noted that the allegations describe a pattern affecting student safety, institutional governance, and academic integrity. The complaints include claims of sexual misconduct between staff and students, which the school’s lawyer, Philip Roth, said the college is “utterly unaware of.”

Roth stated that Excel College has not been contacted by the university system or the justice department and only learned of the letter through The Watchdog. He emphasized that the college “utterly and categorically denies the allegations raised by Mr. Trahan in his referral letter.” The school’s lawyer noted that while the college is aware of one alleged sexual assault between students, it investigated and found both parties denied the incident occurred.

The UNC governing board did not conduct its own investigation, as Trahan’s letter noted that such authority lies beyond the board’s scope. An NCDOJ spokeswoman declined to comment on the status or existence of an investigation. Roth described the complaints as part of a “calculated and orchestrated ‘hit campaign’” by one or more disgruntled individuals, claiming the sheer number of allegations lacks an evidentiary basis.

Excel College, a relatively unknown institution in western North Carolina, was founded in 2016 by the CreatEd Institute, a nonprofit organization. The school, located in Ridgecrest near Black Mountain, teaches students “a biblical worldview” where “discipleship and education come together to foster human flourishing.” The school’s mission emphasizes faith-based education and community service, aligning with broader Christian educational values. However, the recent allegations have raised questions about the institution’s adherence to ethical and legal standards.

The situation highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in educational institutions, especially those serving minors. Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute.” As the investigation unfolds, the community and stakeholders will be watching closely to ensure justice and integrity are upheld.

Source: Read the original report