The Morris Brown College Board of Trustees has terminated Dr. Kevin James from his position as President, without providing a specific cause or explanation. The news comes just weeks before the college’s critical accreditation reaffirmation review.
In a statement posted to LinkedIn, Dr. James described the Board’s action as “deeply concerning,” calling it a “disregard [for] established governance best practices” and a breach of his presidential contract, which was set to run through 2029.
Citing his successful annual evaluations and strong performance reviews, he also emphasized his intent to pursue all remedies under his agreement.
But beyond the abrupt exit, the legacy of Dr. Kevin James at Morris Brown College is hard to ignore, and even harder to understate. Appointed in 2019, James inherited a school that had lost its accreditation nearly 20 years earlier and was down to less than 20 students.
Over the next several years, Dr. James led what he called a “hard reset” and sparked an HBCU comeback story few believed was possible.
Under his leadership, Morris Brown regained full accreditation, becoming the first HBCU to do so after nearly 20 years, restored access to federal financial aid, and grew enrollment from roughly 20 students to more than 540. The college also achieved clean financial audits for seven consecutive years, secured long-term financial stability, and elevated its national visibility and media recognition.
“Morris Brown College will be a testament to the world that dry bones can live again,” Dr. James once said in a previous interview with The Quintessential Gentleman. “We intend on being that institution that prepares the future leaders of this country.”
The Board’s decision to part ways with Dr. James raises questions about internal dynamics, especially given James’ reference to board interference as a chronic challenge for many HBCUs.
Dr. Kevin James leaves behind a transformed Morris Brown College. He not only revived a storied institution but also restored its dignity, reputation, and mission for a new generation of Black students.
“I stand firmly behind the progress we achieved together,” James said. “I am profoundly proud of the work accomplished during my presidency.”
