Morris College

Est. 1908
Sumter, SC

UNCF Member Institution
Transformation Partner


Motto: “Enter to Learn; Depart to Serve.”
Website: morris.edu

A reason why I stay late working with students and try to help unselfishly … is that I realize this is a calling and not just a job, somewhat of a ministry to help.

Dr. Said Sewell President, Morris College

Established in 1908 by the Baptist Educational and Missionary Convention of South Carolina, Morris College is a private, historically Black, coeducational liberal arts institution located in Sumter, South Carolina. Named in honor of Reverend Frank Morris, the college was founded to provide advanced education to African American youth, emphasizing both Christian and intellectual training. Initially, Morris College offered programs at the elementary, high school, and college levels, including teacher education and theology. The first Bachelor of Arts degrees were awarded in 1915. Over time, the institution evolved, discontinuing its elementary and high school programs by 1946 to focus solely on higher education. In 1978, Morris College achieved full accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Today, Morris College offers a variety of bachelor’s degree programs across multiple disciplines, including Biology, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, and Education. The college is committed to promoting the intellectual and personal development of its students, preparing them for successful careers and meaningful contributions to society. The institution’s motto, “Enter to Learn; Depart to Serve,” reflects its dedication to instilling a sense of responsibility and service in its graduates.

Throughout its history, Morris College has been a cornerstone for training educators, ministers, and professionals, significantly contributing to the advancement of African American communities in South Carolina and beyond. The college continues to uphold its mission by fostering academic excellence, ethical leadership, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

An Online Hub for Learning and Community Building

An Online Hub for Learning and Community Building

The United Negro College Fund is launching a new online learning platform where HBCU students and scholars at different institutions across the country can learn and connect.

Anthology Works to Strengthen Network for HBCUs

Anthology Works to Strengthen Network for HBCUs

Supporting student success outcomes requires a culture of data fluency. ICB and Anthology partner on HBCU Data and Analytics Credential.

Black Educators and Leaders Gather in Atlanta for UNCF’s UNITE 2022

Black Educators and Leaders Gather in Atlanta for UNCF’s UNITE 2022

UNCF convened for UNITE 2022, the organization’s summit for students, educators and professional stakeholders at HBCUs.

Coming Together for HBCU Student Success Excellence

Coming Together for HBCU Student Success Excellence

UNCF and InsideTrack partners to help students return to school in the midst of the pandemic. A new case study reveals lessons learned.

Dr. Rochelle Ford Named Next President of Dillard University

Dr. Rochelle Ford Named Next President of Dillard University

Dr. Ford will become the next president of Dillard University, a historically Black university in New Orleans. Ford is currently the dean of Elon University's School of Communications.

Forgotten Leaders – How HBCUs and PBIs Can Amplify Black Women’s Roles in Social Justice Movements

Forgotten Leaders – How HBCUs and PBIs Can Amplify Black Women’s Roles in Social Justice Movements

UNCF’s Executive Leadership Institute gatherings, focused on how HBCUs and PBIs can support women advocates by putting more women in positions of leadership.

Good News for HBCUs

Good News for HBCUs

For decades, Black colleges have been portrayed as deficient. What changed?

Growing Capacity to Leverage Big Data is Advancing Equity in Higher Education; UNCF and Excelencia in Education Continue to Lead the Way 

Growing Capacity to Leverage Big Data is Advancing Equity in Higher Education; UNCF and Excelencia in Education Continue to Lead the Way 

Today, we announced the successful conclusion of Leveraging Big Data to Achieve Equity, an initiative designed to enhance research capabilities at HBCUs and HSIs.

HBCU aims to achieve its goal of enrolling 10,000 students well ahead of schedule

HBCU aims to achieve its goal of enrolling 10,000 students well ahead of schedule

Morgan State University has announced historic enrollment figures for a second consecutive year.

HBCU Transformation Project Launched with $60 Million

HBCU Transformation Project Launched with $60 Million

The HBCU Transformation Project aims to increase HBCU health and sustainability, improve student outcomes in retention and graduation rates, expand enrollment, and bolster capacity building with faculty and staff.

ICB and Partners Reflect on Career Pathways Initiative

ICB and Partners Reflect on Career Pathways Initiative

UNCF and partners reflected on the successes of the Career Pathways Initiative (CPI) funded by a $50 million Lilly Endowment investment that helps HBCUs and PBIs strengthen institutional career placement outcomes.

Innovative Partnerships with Community Development Financial Institutions

Innovative Partnerships with Community Development Financial Institutions

CDFIs like Reinvestment Fund are positioned to connect the dots between community partners, financial institutions and policymakers to help drive healthy and equitable communities.