Leaders at Grand Valley and Morris Brown College signed a memo of understanding March 15 that serves as the start of an articulation agreement, providing Morris Brown graduates with a pathway to enroll in Grand Valley master's degree programs.
Morris Brown College, a private institution in Atlanta, Georgia, is a Historically Black College/University that celebrated its 140th anniversary last year. It is in a state of rebuilding after nearly two decades of declining enrollment.
B. Donta Truss, vice president for Enrollment Development and Educational Outreach, said MBC has a firm foundation in Atlanta, including its location within the Atlanta University Center, the largest consortia of African American private institutions.
"We want to be on the front end of helping to shape their academic trajectory and become a thought partner with MBC during the rebuilding phase of their renewal and footprint within the AU Center," Truss said.
MBC President Kevin James said: “I have a grand appreciation for these two historic institutions coming together to partner in this way. I am appreciative of GVSU’s willingness to provide MBC graduates with an opportunity for another step forward on their road to earning a graduate degree. This work is inspiring and these types of relationships are critical to develop our future leaders.”
Paul Plotkowski, dean of the Padnos College of Engineering and Computing, said the March 15 signing in Atlanta opens the door for future conversations with James and other MBC leaders. Plotkowski has worked with Truss to establish the HBCU/HSI Pipeline Consortium and collaborate with institutions to provide opportunities for students.
"This agreement has opened the pathways with Morris Brown College, and it opens the doors for students," Plotkowski said. "MBC has such a rich history and their students will add great value to Grand Valley's culture. When details are worked out, we will be so pleased to help MBC students elevate their careers and professional development."
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