Morris Brown In Line to Become First HBCU to Regain Accreditation After Losing It Nearly 20 Years Ago

After sharing news that the college had just raised more than $550,000 with a successful 2020 virtual homecoming, Dr. Kevin James, president of Morris Brown College, has also announced that its accreditation application with the Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools (TRACS) has been approved.

This announcement is just the latest step toward the institution receiving full accreditation. Officials from TRACS are planning to visit the campus next year in January 2021 for what will be their final evaluation before candidacy consideration in April 2021.

Almost 20 years ago, back in December 2002, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) revoked Morris Brown’s accreditation because of debt and financial mismanagement.

James said, “This is history in the making. Morris Brown intends to become the first HBCU to earn its accreditation back 20 years after losing it. When Morris Brown achieves candidacy status, hopefully by April 2021, it will give the college all the rights of a fully accredited college, which allows students to receive federal financial aid. Additionally, student degrees will be recognized by other schools and/or employers.”

Bishop Reginald T. Jackson, chairman of the Board of Trustees and bishop of the 6th Episcopal district of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, said in a written statement, “The state’s 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 approval (Georgia Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission {GNPEC}, and now accreditation application approval with TRACS are clear signs that Morris Brown College is headed in the right direction and gaining momentum for its future.”

“I am excited about the future of Morris Brown College under Dr. James’ leadership. Morris Brown has made tremendous progress within the last 20 months. The funds raised at this year’s homecoming represents the largest homecoming fundraiser in the past 20 years,” he added.

“The institution now has national visibility and resurgence. I am also excited about the revitalization of the institution’s academic programs and student services, including new programs such as Esports Performance, Global Management, and Applied Leadership, and Hospitality Management. Morris Brown can now compete again, and great things are in store for MBC,” said James.

“COVID-19 slowed us down, however, we are super excited to be able to get this far in the process, especially during a pandemic. We are still pressing forward. We ask the community to continue to support our full restoration, specifically through donations on our website morrisbrown.edu. It is a new day for Morris Brown College!” #RestoreMorrisBrown #RethinkMorrisBrown #TheHardReset.