Dr. David A. Thomas, the 12th president of Morehouse College, announced his retirement after a tenure that ushered in significant growth and development for the institution. According to FOX 5 Atlanta, Thomas will depart from his role in the summer of 2025, leaving behind a legacy highlighted by increased applications and infrastructure revitalization at the historically black college.
In a personal and reflective letter addressed to the Morehouse community, Dr. Thomas expressed his decision to step down, stating, "After countless hours of reflection, I believe Morehouse's future potential requires new leadership." His announcement comes with the acknowledgment that his successor will inherit a "robust platform" for further elevating Morehouse. Under his leadership, the college saw a revamp of various campus facilities, inclusive of the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel, B.T. Harvey Stadium's football field, and several other educational spaces, as FOX 5 Atlanta reported.
The revered leader also managed to steer the institution from financial challenges to stable footing, enabling progress on vital campus projects and enhancing staff compensations. Innovation was a keynote of his presidency, marked by the establishment of the Center for Black Entrepreneurship and the introduction of an online undergraduate degree completion program. These initiatives were intended to expand educational opportunities and solidify Morehouse's status among the nation's top Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Dr. Thomas, in his heartfelt communication to the college, compared the uncertainty of his success as president to a father's uncertainty of success, stating, "I have not been perfect, but I have done my best." The board will now seek Thomas's replacement in the next academic year, with plans to engage the Morehouse community in guiding their selection for a new leader. Despite his retirement, Thomas intends to take a well-deserved break before returning to contribute to the academic community and the completion of the capital campaign.
