Bridge Club Raises $2,000 for Morris Brown Aug. 24 Debt-Repayment Deadline

The University Bridge Club raised more than $2,000 at a Wednesday fundraiser to help Morris Brown College pay off a $500,000 debt to the U.S. Department of Education by Aug. 24.

The festive event was held at the Quality Living Services Center (QLS), 4001 Danforth Rd. It was well attended with more than 64 players competing at 16 bridge tables. Many of the participants were Morris Brown graduates including Elie Jones, Corene Scott, Janet Waymer, Edith Knowlton, Bettie Harden, Connie Darden, Jeannette Williams and Eloise Burwell.

The financially-strapped school has entered into a deal with the federal education department to forgive $10 million dollars. If the college is successful, it will erase the huge multi-million dollar debt, help the school regain its accreditation, and provide the school the opportunity to begin with a clean slate.

While much has been made about the school’s financial problems, the 130-year-old college has quietly and steadfastly moved ahead in an effort to pay this debt and hopefully regain its former status.

The college has raised $365,000 towards the $500,000 owed the Department of Education. The school’s current president, Dr. Stanley Pritchett, stopped by to greet the group and to thank them for their efforts.

At The University Bridge Club event, many players paid the required $5.00 fee and then wrote additional checks to aid the college.

Morris Brown graduate and bridge player Edith Knowlton, says “ It’s important that we save this revered institution. We owe it to our ancestors who started the school.”.

People who want to donate to the cause are encouraged to do so. Checks should be made out to Morris Brown College.

For additional information regarding this ongoing Morris Brown fundraiser, contact bridge event chairperson Willie Boyd Saddler at 404-794-0728 or Bettie Harden at 404-344-4589.