Morris College: Cultivating Leaders and Shaping Futures
Morris College, a private, Baptist institution with a rich history in Sumter, South Carolina, has been instrumental in providing quality education and fostering a strong sense of community for over a century. Founded in 1908 by the Baptist Educational and Missionary Convention of South Carolina, the college has evolved from offering elementary, high school, and college-level programs to focusing on baccalaureate degrees in diverse fields. This article explores the college's history, its commitment to student development, and some of its notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various spheres.
A Legacy of Education and Empowerment
Morris College's journey began with a vision to provide educational opportunities to the African American community in South Carolina. The institution received its certificate of incorporation from the state on April 12, 1911. Initially, the curriculum encompassed elementary, high school, and college levels, featuring programs in liberal arts, teacher certification, and theology. In 1915, the college awarded its first Bachelor of Arts degrees to two graduates. Over time, Morris College streamlined its offerings, discontinuing the teacher certification program in 1929, the elementary school in 1930, and the high school in 1946. After operating as a junior college in the early 1930s, it resumed its full four-year program in 1933.
The college is named after Frank Morris, a leader of the African American community of South Carolina. Edward M. Brawley served as the college's first president from 1908 to 1912. John J. Starks, the second president, oversaw the awarding of the first bachelor's degrees in 1915. Ira David Pinson, the third president, led the college through a period of expansion during the Great Depression. James P. Garrick, the fourth president, served from 1930 to 1946, during which the Department of Religion developed the "Standard Leadership Curriculum." Henry H. Butler, the fifth president, served from 1946 to 1948, simultaneously holding the presidency of the Baptist Convention, and oversaw the completion of the library project. Jeff W. Boykin served as the acting president in 1948. Odell Richardson Reuben became the seventh president and was the first African American to earn a Doctor of Religion from Duke University. Luns C. Richardson, the ninth president, was the college's longest-serving president, from 1974 to July 2017, during which he eliminated a significant deficit.
Morris College achieved full accreditation by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools on December 13, 1978. On January 1, 1982, it became the 42nd member of the United Negro College Fund.
Fostering a Culture of Family and Opportunity
Morris College prides itself on creating a supportive and nurturing environment where students feel like family. This emphasis on community is a significant draw for many students, who appreciate the personal attention and sense of belonging they find on campus.
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Nigeria Myers, the Student Government Association President and a senior majoring in criminal justice with a minor in Christian education, chose Morris because she wanted to be close to family and avoid being "labeled as a statistic." She found a new season for herself at Morris, unlocking hidden potential. Myers aspires to attend the University of South Carolina's law school and practice law after graduation.
Talique Cobb, the junior and vice president of the Student Government Association, majors in mass communication and aims to become a social media marketer and eventually enter politics. He values the connection with faculty and staff who support him.
Tah’Ajaih Goodwine, a senior and student leader, is passionate about working with children and majors in early childhood education. She plans to become a preschool or kindergarten teacher and later pursue a master's degree in educational administration. Her family history with Morris College influenced her decision to attend.
Jeremiah Robinson, a junior majoring in business administration, chose an HBCU because he felt a sense of belonging and support. He aspires to become a district manager at a restaurant. He emphasizes the personal attention and family-like atmosphere at Morris.
Academic Programs and Career Focus
Morris College offers a range of programs leading to baccalaureate degrees. Currently, the college offers programs of study leading to the baccalaureate degree with major programs in Biology, Biology/Secondary Education, Business Administration, Christian Education, Criminal Forensics, Criminal Justice, Cybersecurity, Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, English, English/Secondary Education, Health Science, Liberal Studies, Mass Communications, Mathematics, Mathematics/Secondary Education, Organizational Management, Pastoral Ministry, Recreation Administration, Social Studies/Secondary Education, and Sociology. The college is particularly recognized for its theology and religion programs, as well as its criminal justice program.
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Morris College is a career-oriented institution and an average of 24% of each recent graduating class enrolled in graduate or professional schools during the five year period following graduation. The most popular majors are Criminal Justice, Health Science, and Organizational Management. The Career Services office offers services such as career development and placement counseling, co-ops, and career and job fairs, as well as working with employers for job and internship recruiting. Cooperative education courses help students make a structured transition from school to work, and are available for both full and part-time students.
Navigating Challenges and Embracing Innovation
Like many institutions, Morris College has faced challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Enrollment has decreased in recent years. The college has expanded remote offerings to allow more students to take courses online. The college is working to balance virtual and face-to-face learning.
Despite these challenges, Morris College remains committed to providing accessible education, particularly for first-generation students. The college prides itself on offering a smaller, more intimate setting where students can develop strong relationships with faculty and receive personalized attention. Many students live within close proximity to the college, allowing them to maintain family obligations while pursuing their education.
Notable Alumni: Leaders and Achievers
Morris College has produced a number of notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. These individuals exemplify the college's commitment to developing leaders and empowering individuals to make a difference in the world.
- Laura Hall: A 1965 graduate, Hall is a politician and member of the Alabama House of Representatives from the 19th district.
- Jerry Moore: A 1963 graduate, Moore participated in the Freedom Rides, a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.
- Herman Harris: A 1963 graduate, Harris also participated in the Freedom Rides, demonstrating his commitment to social justice.
- Mae Francis Moultrie: A 1961 graduate, Moultrie participated in the Freedom Rides.
- James T. McCain: A Civil Rights activist and local president of CORE, McCain also participated in the Freedom Rides.
- Dr. Leroy Bowman: A 1940 graduate, Bowman was one of the original legendary Tuskegee Airmen of WWII.
- J. David Weeks: An Attorney at Law Member in Sumter, S.C.
- Arthenia J. Bates Millican: author and protégée of Langston Hughes.
These alumni represent the diverse paths that Morris College graduates have taken, demonstrating the impact of a Morris College education on individuals and communities.
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