Morris receives $200K Department of Homeland Security grant to enhance campus safety and resilience efforts

Morris College, a leader in higher education for both traditional and nontraditional students, has been awarded a 2025 Nonprofit Security Grant Program grant. This funding will support security enhancements at the college, reinforcing its commitment to ensuring a safe learning and working environment.

Through a competitive process, the South Carolina Law Enforcement Department has awarded Morris College $200,000 in grant funding. This funding will be utilized for the installation of additional security measures, including enhanced security cameras throughout the campus, an electronic entry/exit back gate and increased fencing to secure access points. These new security improvements will complement the existing residential door access control system and the more than 200 cameras already operating in residential halls and common areas.

"This grant will allow Morris College to improve and enhance our security measures in protecting our students, faculty and staff and our campus," said retired Gen. George Bowman, director of facilities and security.

As one of South Carolina's oldest historically Black colleges and universities, Morris College has a rich history spanning more than 117 years, symbolizing Black achievement and resilience. However, this legacy also places the college at risk of threats, particularly from extremist groups aiming to undermine institutions that embody hope and strength.

In recent years, HBCUs, including Morris College, have become increasingly targeted by terrorist threats and extremist harassment, shining a light on the urgent need to protect these vital institutions of higher learning. Since 2022, more than 45 HBCUs have received bomb or active shooter threats. More recently, in September 2025, at least 10 HBCUs, including Morris, were placed on lockdown because of violent threats, highlighting the ongoing vulnerability of these institutions to extremist actions, regardless of the credibility of the threats.

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program aims to support nonprofit organizations and houses of worship in their efforts to prevent and respond to terrorist acts. This grant initiative is part of a broader strategy authorized by the U.S. Congress and implemented by the Department of Homeland Security to bolster community resilience against potential terrorist attacks.

"These investments in our security infrastructure will integrate and unify all our internal and external systems," said Daniel Piram, director of campus security.

Notice of an award to Morris College was made in October. The three-year performance period for the grant begins on Nov. 1, during which time Morris College will be completing its campus-wide security enhancement projects.