(Sumter, SC) — The instructors and cadets of the AFJROTC Morris Summer Cadet Leadership Course extend their heartfelt appreciation to Morris College for once again opening its campus and facilities to support the development of future leaders across South Carolina.
From May 31 through June 5, Morris College hosted 108 AFJROTC cadets representing eight high schools: Lakewood High School, Crestwood High School, Sumter High School, Sumter, SC; Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School, Orangeburg, SC; C.A. Johnson High School, Columbia High School, Columbia; Wilson High School, West Florence High School, Florence, SC. Lakewood High School served as the host school for this year’s leadership course.
Each participating school selected some of its most promising cadet leaders to attend the week-long training program. Throughout the course, cadets participated in daily personal inspections, room inspections, drill and ceremonies, leadership development classes, team-building activities, and character-building lectures. To maximize focus and engagement, cadets surrendered their cell phones for the duration of the training, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the leadership experience.
Upon graduation, all participants earned promotion to the rank of Cadet Second Lieutenant. These new leaders are now better prepared to lead and serve their home units, schools, and communities during the upcoming school year.
The partnership between Morris College and AFJROTC extends far beyond providing facilities. Morris College has become an invaluable partner in developing the next generation of leaders and creating pathways to higher education. The college’s commitment to student success aligns perfectly with the mission of AFJROTC — to develop citizens of character dedicated to serving their communities and nation.
“We are excited to collaborate with Morris College in creating a pipeline from our JROTC programs to Morris College,” said the AFJROTC instructors. “Morris College’s investment in our cadets demonstrates a commitment not only to higher education but also to leadership development and community service.”
Morris College offers both Air Force ROTC and Army ROTC opportunities, providing cadets with additional pathways to continue their leadership development and pursue military service while earning a college degree. This unique combination makes Morris College an outstanding destination for JROTC cadets seeking to continue their educational and leadership journey.
Last year, Morris College awarded a full scholarship to one Summer Cadet Leadership Course participant. That cadet will enter the Morris College Honors College this fall, exemplifying the opportunities made possible through this growing partnership. During this year’s graduation ceremony, Morris College President Dr. Said Sewell surprised and inspired cadets and families by personally presenting five Full Tuition Last Dollar Scholarships.
Morris College stated, “We are pleased to confirm that Morris College will extend the Full Tuition Last Dollar Scholarship, valued at up to $15,764 per year, contingent upon successful admission to the College.”
The scholarship recipients were:
Patreonna Brown, Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School
Sha’naina Sutton, Orangeburg-Wilkinson High School
Ahmia Patterson, Crestwood High School
Syniah Minick-Brown, Columbia High School
Janiah Davis, Columbia High School
The presentation of these scholarships was a powerful reminder of what can happen when educational institutions invest in young people. The scholarships not only recognize academic achievement and leadership potential but also provide life-changing opportunities for deserving students and their families.
The AFJROTC instructors from all participating schools express their sincere gratitude to President Dr. Said Sewell, the Morris College administration, faculty, staff, and ROTC leadership for their hospitality, generosity, and unwavering support. Their commitment transformed a week of leadership training into an experience that will impact cadets for years to come.
As this partnership continues to grow, AFJROTC programs across South Carolina look forward to working alongside Morris College to develop leaders, expand educational opportunities, and build a stronger pipeline from JROTC classrooms to college campuses and future careers in service and leadership.
Together, Morris College and AFJROTC are proving that when institutions invest in young people, extraordinary things happen.
