In the wake of the U.S. Department of Labor’s decision to pause the national Job Corps program, Morris Brown College in Atlanta has emerged as a beacon of support for hundreds of students left without direction. The institution, which has seen a remarkable resurgence since regaining its accreditation in 2022, is opening its doors to young people impacted by the program’s unexpected disruption.
The Job Corps program, which provides career training and residential support for low-income youth ages 16 to 24, was abruptly halted in early June due to budget uncertainty. The decision sent shockwaves across the country, leaving students in limbo, many of whom were mid-training, without housing or clear guidance on what would come next.
Morris Brown College, led by President Dr. Kevin James, responded swiftly and with heart. A former Job Corps educator himself, Dr. James saw the crisis not just as an administrative issue but as a personal calling. He invited displaced students to explore Morris Brown as a place where they could continue their education and vocational preparation, stating, “You are not alone.” He and his team are offering one-on-one counseling, help navigating admissions and financial aid, and, most importantly, a place to belong.
Beyond emergency response, Morris Brown is positioning itself as a long-term partner in student success. The college has a growing slate of career-focused academic programs and a revitalized Career and Community Development office. Starting this fall, all students—new and returning—will have access to a structured four-year pathway that includes resume building, internships, career fairs, and preparation for graduate school. The goal is not only to help students find jobs but also to equip them with the tools for lifelong success.
This is not a temporary effort. The college is actively integrating displaced Job Corps students into the broader student body and academic life. Housing, scholarships, and support services are being made available, and faculty are preparing to help students transition from vocational training into college-level coursework.
Morris Brown’s actions are part of a broader movement among historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), many of which are stepping up to support underserved and displaced youth in times of crisis. But for Morris Brown, the mission is particularly resonant. This is a college that knows what it means to fight for survival—and win. Its outreach to Job Corps students is not just a handout; it’s a hand-up rooted in empathy, resilience, and a firm belief in the power of second chances.
As the 2025–2026 academic year approaches, Morris Brown College stands as a powerful example of what it means to be mission-driven. In the face of instability and uncertainty, the college is providing a stable foundation—and, for many young people, a new home.
