Recently during commencement week, the College proudly launched Women Mobilizing for Morehouse, a transformative new initiative led by First Lady Cynthia Bowman and founding chair Adrienne Willis under the inspiring mantra: “Her investment, His future. Our legacy.”
The special evening celebrated the extraordinary women whose leadership, advocacy, and philanthropy have helped shape the enduring legacy of Morehouse College while paving the way for its future generations.
From left to right: President Bowman, Shirley Franklin, Billye Aaron, and Cynthia Bowman
In the spirit of honoring women who have championed Morehouse throughout its history, the gathering welcomed revered philanthropist and trustee emerita Billye Aaron and former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin for an engaging conversation alongside First Lady Cynthia Bowman and President F. DuBois Bowman. The discussion was presented as part of the College’s new Principled Leadership in Action presidential speaker series, highlighting the importance of visionary leadership, service, and community impact.
A deeply moving moment of the evening came with the recognition of the incomparable Dr. Anne Watts, affectionately known as “The Mother of Morehouse.” Her son, Michael Watts ’92, accepted the honor on her behalf, while Dr. Leah Creque reflected on Dr. Watts’ decades of foundational contributions to many of Morehouse’s most cherished traditions. Her unwavering dedication helped shape the “Morehouse Experience” that the College is renowned for today and influenced generations of Morehouse Men through her leadership, mentorship, and commitment to excellence.
The celebration culminated with the exciting announcement that the Women Mobilizing for Morehouse initiative has already raised more than $450,000 within its first six months of activity, and the momentum is only beginning.
Women Mobilizing for Morehouse represents an ongoing celebration of the women who make Morehouse the institution we know and love today while helping shape its future for the next 160 years and beyond.