Can a dedicated community help a beloved HBCU institution survive a catastrophic financial crisis and loss of accreditation? Once “resurrected,” how can the college rebuild itself on a new foundation where all students succeed? Is it possible to offer a debt free college education so that its doors can open even wider?
In this case study, we explore how the story of Morris Brown College is a story of resilience and restoration. The college lost its accreditation in 2003 due to financial mismanagement and declared chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2012 to avoid foreclosure of its properties. Enrollment dropped to near zero, but the college was kept open in part through its strong base of alumni support and unique connection to the African Methodist Episcopal church. Under its new president, the college is now building back with BMWP practices at its core, and a goal to boost success rates of historically underserved students and a focus on reducing or eliminating student debt.
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