With a career spanning over 22 years as an educator, administrator, executive business leader and motivational speaker, Dr. Kevin James brings a wealth of experience to his role as the president of Morris Brown College.
Morris Brown College was founded on Christian principles in 1881 by the African Methodist Episcopal Church and is chartered by the State of Georgia as a private, coeducational, liberal arts college engaged in teaching, research, and public service in the arts, humanities, social and natural sciences and professional programs.
James serves as the 19th president of Morris Brown College and became the leader of the college while it was under duress and lacking recognition from the United States Department of Education as an institution in good standing. Dr. James was serious about the historical legacy of the college and was on a mission to re-accredit the institution at the onset of his position.
As a result, James initiated #TheHardReset, a campaign to restore Morris Brown to compliance and recognition by the Department of Education. “Taking this role was risky as what I was attempting to do had never been done in history before,” said James. “However, my secret superpower is solving problems when there is no answer.”
His efforts were successful with the college regaining accreditation after a nearly 20-year hiatus, becoming the first HBCU to achieve such a feat. In addition, James has been responsible for stabilizing finances, expanding academic offerings, increasing fundraising and achieving record-breaking enrollment in the past two decades.
Dr. James’ accolades include features in prominent media outlets, such as Black Enterprise, Forbes and CNN, highlighting his impact and influence.
“Recognized for his visionary leadership, Dr. James secured a groundbreaking partnership with Hilton Hotels Worldwide and CGI Merchant Group to develop a $40 million hotel on campus,” said his colleagues. “This collaboration not only contributes to the college’s financial stability but also offers valuable training opportunities for students in the hospitality industry.”
Looking forward, James said the college seeks to provide its students with an environment that will foster the development of wholesome attitudes and a full appreciation for the cultural heritage of the human race epitomized in the major intellectual and/or cultural disciplines.
“His strategic vision, dedication and numerous accomplishments have positioned the institution for a successful future,” said his staff.
