Morris Brown College, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) based in Atlanta, GA, has parted ways with Kevin James as its president.

James, the institution’s 19th president, shared the news in a LinkedIn post on Monday, Jan. 12, 2026, saying the Board of Trustees fired him “without providing a specific cause or substantive explanation.”

“This action is deeply concerning,” James wrote. “Research and my lived experience demonstrate that many HBCUs have struggled with board overreach and interference. Unfortunately, those dynamics are evident in this situation.”

James said the Board’s decision “disregards established governance best practices” and violates his presidential contract, which runs through 2029. He shared plans to “pursue all rights and remedies” available under the agreement.

“Morris Brown College has literally made history under my leadership as President,” James said in his post, citing a successful annual evaluation and continually strong performance reviews during his seven-year presidency.

Per his LinkedIn post, James’ accomplishments include restoring access to federal financial aid, increasing enrollment from roughly 20 students to more than 540, and positioning Morris Brown for long-term economic stability.

A Troubled Financial Past

The college was founded by formerly enslaved religious leaders at Big Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in 1881, and under James’ tenure, it became the first HBCU to regain accreditation.

As AFROTECH™ previously reported, the U.S. Department of Education restored Morris Brown’s accreditation in 2021. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges had stripped the college’s accreditation in 2002 due to debt and financial mismanagement, per 11Alive.

James noted on LinkedIn that the HBCU is approaching its accreditation reaffirmation review in the coming weeks.

“I dedicated myself fully to the restoration and resurgence of Morris Brown College, and I stand firmly behind the progress we achieved together,” James said.

“Thank you for believing in the vision and the work,” he added.

Morris Brown College Responds

As of Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026, Morris Brown’s website lists school trustee Nzinga Shaw as interim president. A news release posted to the institution’s homepage confirmed Shaw’s appointment, noting that she will oversee day-to-day operations.

Before her interim appointment, Shaw was a member of Morris Brown’s board of trustees and co-chair of its facilities committee, per the news release. She also delivered the 2023 commencement address, where she received an honorary doctorate of humane letters.

The board thanked James for his service and dedication to Morris Brown and its broader community, acknowledging his role in guiding the institution through critical periods of growth and transformation. They also wished him well in his next chapter.

“Morris Brown College remains firmly committed to its students, its mission, and its long-term strategic vision,” Bishop Michael Mitchell, chair of the board of trustees, said in a statement. “This transition in leadership will help to ensure continuity as we move forward with the important work of strengthening and advancing the College.”

Contacted For Comment

AFROTECH™ reached out to James with an inquiry for questions or comments. He said he would be open to speaking with the outlet after finalizing details with his attorney.