Dr. Robert Morris Jr.’s classroom is akin to a pulpit, so much so that students have asked if he’s a preacher. “I just want people to know that when you’re on God’s mission, and when you’re in God’s purpose, you live in his speed,” says the Broward College professor.
While Morris doesn’t teach a theology curriculum, he treats his role as a history and Black history educator like a spiritual calling. The Miami Edison Senior High graduate left Florida to pursue a career in medicine and joined the Army, planning to serve as a medic. “Of course, God had a different purpose for me,” Morris says.
Instead, while attending Colgate University, he became the first Black student elected vice president of the Student Government Association. After earning an undergraduate degree in 1995, he earned a master of arts in teaching secondary school social studies. Morris later earned a master of business administration from American Intercontinental University and a doctorate in leadership and education from Barry University.
Having spent 28 years as an educator, primarily on the east coast, he is in his 11th year at Broward College. He has taught students ranging from high school dual enrollment to “people who come back” seeking higher education, he says.
His passion is instructing courses that examine citizenship, landmark Supreme Court cases, and other historic events that impact American life. “Because of the governor’s civic literacy mandate on making sure students are prepared and that students are civically engaged, history has been my focal point,” says Morris.
“It’s a requirement now and I love it,” he adds. “It’s so crucial that they know these things.” Among questions Morris raises for discussion is one surrounding protests by such historical figures as Rosa Parks: Is it always wrong to break the law?
“I try to get these students into deeper conversations about how history plays out across America, while also getting them engaged in the civics process,” Morris says. “I ran into a previous student who said, ‘Dr. Morris, I miss you so, so much,’ and I said, ‘Why?’ She said, ‘You made history come to life.’”
Along with his work at Broward, Morris oversees the non-profit, South Florida Village, which promotes college-readiness and mentoring. He is a past education chairman for the local NAACP and an education committee member of his Phi Beta Sigma chapter.
Marquise M. McGriff, founder of Rdevia, which advocates for historically Black colleges and universities, says Morris’ recognition among Legacy’s 2025 Top Black Educators is much deserved.
“Dr. Morris embodies the spirit of educational excellence, mentorship and service,” says Morris. “His impact on South Florida students and communities is immeasurable – and ongoing. He is, without question, an extraordinary educator and a true champion for equity and opportunity.”
Morris says educating Black students and those of all backgrounds is tied to their potential beyond the classroom. “I teach like my life depends on it,” he says. “It’s not only my assignment. Justice is involved and impacted by it.”
