Morgan MILE

Morgan MILE header featuring logo and members

Our History

In 2004, Dr. Jason DeSousa was deeply moved after hearing Dr. Earl S. Richardson, the 9th President of Morgan State University, share troubling statistics regarding the retention of Black male students. Compelled to take action, Dr. DeSousa envisioned an initiative centered on the academic success and holistic development of Black males, grounded in the theoretical frameworks of integrated identity, learning, and student engagement.

At that time, Morgan State offered no formal support programs specifically for male students outside of athletics and fraternity life. Recognizing this gap, Dr. DeSousa partnered with Dr. Douglas Gwynn, Director of the Office of Residence Life and Housing, to explore the factors contributing to male student achievement and graduation.

By 2006, their collaborative research and planning laid the foundation for what would become the Morgan Male Initiative on Leadership and Excellence (M.I.L.E.).

In 2008, the Office of Residence Life and Housing formally adopted the program, launching the Morgan MILE Academy. All first-year male students residing in O’Connell Hall were automatically enrolled in the Academy, ensuring early and intentional engagement. Since its inception, the Morgan M.I.L.E. has grown into a model of success in fostering Black male achievement. Its impact has extended beyond Morgan State University, inspiring the development of similar programs at institutions across the country, including St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; The College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia; Fayetteville State University in Fayetteville, North Carolina, and Howard University in Washington, D.C.

In its 2020 feature, “10 HBCUs Changing the World,” College Magazine recognized The Morgan M.I.L.E., stating that “The Morgan M.I.L.E. acts as a support group and guide for Black men in their pursuit of personal and academic success through mentoring, networking opportunities, and academic assistance.” This acknowledgment highlights the program’s impactful role in fostering achievement, leadership, and holistic development among its members.

Our Mission

The Morgan Male Initiative on Leadership & Excellence (M.I.L.E.) is an Office of Residence Life and Housing program that seeks to enhance the quality of student life and engagement for male students at Morgan State University. The "M.I.L.E." provides students with a wealth of academic support services and social engagement opportunities to create a healthy and holistic campus experience.

Our Vision

We believe that a student's academic performance is affected not only by their self-determination, but also by several external factors (e.g. adjustment and transition to university life, socioeconomic status, academic preparedness, self-esteem, familial involvement, etc.).

Our research shows that black males oftentimes experience greater difficulty in making the transition from high school to college as well as matriculating towards graduation as compared to their female counterparts.

The Morgan MILE seeks to better these difficulties through offering programs and opportunities that educate, inspire, and connect students with individuals who are motivated towards high personal and academic success.

From these experiences, we hope to increase the academic success and graduation rates of Morgan's male population, improve students' perceptions of their self-efficacy and potential, and provide them with appropriate leadership development skills that will assist them in their future career pursuits.

CORE VALUES

Self Affirmation
Academic Achievement
Graduation
Exploration and Exposure
Civic Responsibility and Teamwork
Leadership and Excellence

The core value of the Morgan MILE is to encourage high academic achievement, leadership, and character development. We envision leadership as a level of maturity where a student assumes responsibility for his academic success and personal conduct and motivates their peers through their actions.

We value student voices and we encourage critical thinking and dialogue. We foster an atmosphere of brotherhood and camaraderie. We value diverse ideas, thoughts, and experiences that broaden the perception of ourselves and our world. We believe that our personal academic success is connected to the success of our communities and world.

MOTTO

“LEARN TOGETHER, LEAD TOGETHER, GRADUATE TOGETHER”

MORGAN M.I.L.E. IMPACT

Since its inception, Morgan M.I.L.E. members have consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership and service across campus. Members currently hold and have previously held several distinguished leadership positions, including Student Regent, roles within the Student Government Association, and appointments to The Morgan State University Royal Court. In addition, members actively serve in leadership capacities within their respective class cohorts, honor societies, student organizations, and Greek-letter organizations. Through these roles, Morgan M.I.L.E. continues to cultivate student leaders who make meaningful and lasting contributions to the university community.

THE ACADEMIC STANDARD

From Fall 2017 through Fall 2024, the average GPA of a Morgan M.I.L.E. membership is 3.16, compared to the average GPA of 2.62 among male students at Morgan State University. This point difference underscores the program’s measurable impact on academic achievement and its commitment to fostering scholastic excellence among its participants.

From Fall 2017 through Fall 2024, Morgan M.I.L.E. members have consistently outperformed their male peers academically at Morgan State University across every classification level.

Morgan M.I.L.E. Freshmen vs. Average Male Freshmen

3.10 vs. 2.27

Morgan M.I.L.E. Sophomores vs. Average Male Sophomores

3.17 vs 2.77

Morgan M.I.L.E. Juniors vs. Average Male Juniors

3.05 vs 2.57

Morgan M.I.L.E. Seniors vs. Average Male Seniors

3.27 vs 2.80

Across each academic classification—freshman through senior year—Morgan M.I.L.E. members maintain higher average grade point averages than their male counterparts, demonstrating the program’s sustained impact on academic performance and student success throughout the collegiate experience.

What Is Expected of a Morgan M.I.L.E. Man

Be a leader—on and off campus.
Exemplify integrity, accountability, and positive influence in every space you occupy.
Be active and engaged on campus.
Contribute meaningfully to student life through organizations, initiatives, and campus involvement.
Grow into the man you aspire to be.
Commit to continuous personal, academic, and professional development.
Remain focused on your purpose.
Never lose sight of why you came to college—prioritize academic excellence and long-term goals.
Blaze your own trail.
Embrace innovation, courage, and individuality while striving for distinction.
Serve and give back.
Demonstrate a commitment to service by uplifting your campus, your community, and the world at large.