In a surprise moment, at the close of his keynote commencement address to the Morris Brown College (MBC) Class of 2025, global faith leader and celebrated entrepreneur Bishop T.D. Jakes announced a $100,000 philanthropic pledge from the T.D. Jakes Foundation (TDJF) in support of the college’s workforce readiness, educational access, and institutional resilience.
Jakes, who delivered a powerful message centered on resilience, legacy, and leadership, said the gift is a direct investment in a generation poised to shape the future in the face of adversity. The surprise announcement underscores a key theme from his commencement address: that legacy is not what we inherit but what we invest forward. Drawing parallels between the comeback of Morris Brown College, Jakes challenged graduates to see themselves not as survivors of history, but as architects of what comes next. Jakes was also honored with an honorary doctorate during the afternoon’s festivities.
This financial gift comes at a moment of renewed urgency for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), many of which face growing financial uncertainty as federal support fluctuates and operational costs rise.
Putting the Pledge into Perspective:
The $100,000 commitment from the T.D. Jakes Foundation has the power to unlock significant opportunity. It could fund more than 150 workforce certification exams, equipping students with credentials in high-demand fields like hospitality and business. Nationally, the average cost of attendance at a four-year college—including tuition, fees, and living expenses—hovers around $27,000 per year. At that rate, this pledge represents the potential to support nearly four full years of comprehensive education, demonstrating the profound impact that targeted investment can have in shaping futures and strengthening HBCU communities.
The T.D. Jakes Foundation’s commitment reflects a broader mission to close opportunity gaps by investing in skills training, professional development, and access to competitive career pipelines—especially for communities historically left out of economic progress. Launched in 2020, TDJF is committed to equipping individuals and communities with the tools to thrive in the modern economy.
Founded in 1881, Morris Brown College is the only HBCU in Georgia established entirely by Blacks. After losing accreditation in 2002, the institution made national headlines in 2022 when it became the first HBCU to regain accreditation after a two-decade hiatus.
The ceremony took place at Saint Philip A.M.E. Church in Atlanta.
Entire 2025 Commencement address from Jakes streamed here YouTube: Morris Brown College.
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