Beloved Morehouse,
As we reflect on this election season, I am filled with pride in how our community has rallied together in ways that define the essence of Morehouse. From hosting voter registration drives to engaging in critical discussions both inside and outside the classroom, you demonstrated the values we hold dear. Your efforts in educating one another—and the broader community—about election processes, issues, and voting rights have made a profound impact. Please do not question those efforts. You did the right thing. Voting is a human right, secured through the sacrifices of our ancestors, and you rose to the occasion to ensure our voices—both individual and collective—were heard. I offer a round of applause and sincere thank you to our Student Services team, Student Government, RSO leaders, and all engaged staff, faculty, and students who strategized and mobilized to execute these initiatives.
For many, this election's outcome may evoke disappointment, frustration, or even anger. I want to acknowledge that these feelings are valid. It is natural, even essential, to sit in those emotions. Feel the feelings. Ride the wave. Express them openly with family, friends, classmates, professors, and colleagues. Morehouse is unique in that we encourage meaningful discourse on matters that other institutions might shy away from. Here, we support one another as we continue this institution's ambitious, divine mission and, ultimately, advance the mission of this nation.
At the core of our nation's mission lies the powerful promise of "Liberty and Justice for all." My deepest hope and fervent prayer are that we, as a nation, draw ever closer to truly embodying this ideal. Our journey demands that we, as Americans, confront our imperfections while harmonizing diverse, sometimes conflicting visions to forge mutual agreements that propel us toward progress. These are the ideals that America claims and Morehouse will continue to push forward. This is the crown above our head that we all should aspire to grow tall enough to wear.
Lastly, in a time of mis- & disinformation, we must continue to uplift and emphasize the incredible, irreplaceable impact of a quality education, particularly a collegiate education. As enrollment numbers decline across higher education institutions in the US and more young people question the importance of the college experience, we must all tout its truth. Critical thinking is disintegrating. Contemporary understanding of various world views and experiences is less encouraged. Community building, emotional intelligence, and empathy for others are being replaced by othering, fear-mongering, and divisiveness. This is where Morehouse must continue to take a stand and further advance our values of Compassion, Awareness, Truth, Academic Excellence, Respect, Integrity, & Spirituality. We must be the change we wish to see. That change must and will start from within.
America and Morehouse have come far in the last 157 years, but we are not where we should be. Therefore, there is work to be done. So, take your time, rest, hug a loved one, do something that brings you joy, and recenter yourself as needed. The road ahead calls us to continue this work with even greater intentionality and urgency. Let us renew our commitment to "Liberty and Justice for all"—not just as words, but as actions, a way of life, and our ultimate mission.
In solidarity,
David Thomas
President
Morehouse College