25 LC 112 3372 Senate Resolution 397 By: Senators James of the 28th, Rhett of the 33rd, Orrock of the 36th, Mallow of the 2nd, Esteves of the 35th and others A RESOLUTION Recognizing and commending Dr. Kevin James; and for other purposes. 1 WHEREAS, Dr. Kevin James currently serves as the 19th president of Morris Brown2 College, where his vision and expertise have been instrumental in restoring the institution's3 accreditation after nearly two decades, making it the first historically Black college and4 university to accomplish this significant achievement; and5 WHEREAS, under his leadership, Morris Brown College secured full accreditation from the6 Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools on April 26, 2022, restoring the7 institution's eligibility for federal financial aid programs and Title IV funding as well as8 reinstating its participation in the Strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities9 program under Title III; and10 WHEREAS, with more than 23 years of experience as an educator, administrator, and11 executive leader, Dr. James has spearheaded efforts to stabilize the college's finances, expand12 academic offerings, increase fundraising, implement a five-year strategic plan, and achieve13 record-breaking enrollment; and14 S. R. 397 - 1 - 25 LC 112 3372 WHEREAS, his exemplary service extends beyond Morris Brown College through active 15 participation on the boards of the African Methodist Episcopal Church Worldwide, the16 Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Kappa Kappa Psi, and the Historic Oakland17 Foundation, among others; and18 WHEREAS, widely regarded as a leading voice in higher education, Dr. James is a19 sought-after keynote speaker, mentor, and advocate who frequently addresses topics related20 to historically Black colleges and universities, equity and inclusion, and the unique21 challenges faced by minority-serving institutions; and22 WHEREAS, it is abundantly fitting and proper that this remarkable individual be23 appropriately honored during this special time.24 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body25 recognize and commend Dr. Kevin James for his outstanding leadership as president of26 Morris Brown College and his dedication to higher education as well as extend best wishes27 for continued success.28 BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed29 to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to Dr. Kevin James.30 S. R. 397 - 2 -