Morris Brown College has received $810,000 to help improve safety on campus, school leaders said on Wednesday.
Most of it is from a $700,000 grant sponsored by Congresswoman Nikema Williams, who is a member of the Congressional Bipartisan HBCU Caucus. Another $60,000 comes from the Sixth Episcopal District of the AME Church, and the final $50,000 is from Atlanta rapper and entertainer Tip “T.I.” Harris.
“At a time that Morris Brown College is witnessing great growth, support that helps to enhance our campus security will truly make a difference as we prioritize the safety of our students, faculty and staff,” Morris Brown College President Dr. Kevin James said. “As Morris Brown continues its resurgence, we are most appreciative of philanthropic support and will continue to be good ground for people to pour into.”
Most of the funds will go toward upgrading safety technology, creating emergency response plans, conducting a risk and threat assessment and hiring more public safety personnel.
Meanwhile, Harris’ gift will fund endowment scholarships.
Williams said she sponsored the grant because students deserve to feel safe.
“As our HBCUs continue to face increasing threats, these federal funds will support critical safety infrastructure so that students, faculty, and staff can learn and work in an environment that is secure, responsive and prepared,” she continued.
Last week, Morris Brown College was put under an “emergency alert” after it was named in a threatening email targeting several HBCUs across the country. Law enforcement found there was no danger.
