Morgan State University Receives $1.75M Grant to Build its Medical School

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Published by Stephen Oluwadara at September 2, 2025

HBCU Morgan State University is Plugging a Health Shortage

Morgan State University is taking bold action to address the growing physician shortage and health disparities in underserved communities. The new Morgan-operated medical school will deliver a solution that will benefit both Maryland and the nation.

“This investment represents a pivotal moment for Morgan and for the communities we serve,” said David K. Wilson, president of Morgan State University. “For more than a decade, we have been committed to the idea that a medical school on our campus can be transformative — not only for our students but for the state of Maryland and the nation. With the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s support, we are charting a new course toward a public, nonprofit M.D. program that will train physicians where they are most needed, close gaps in care, and reflect the diversity of the populations served.”

The Association of American Medical Colleges projects a shortage of up to 48,000 primary care physicians by 2034, disproportionately affecting underserved communities.

Rural and low-income areas already struggle with access, with many designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas. Physicians from underrepresented minority backgrounds are more likely to serve vulnerable populations, yet they make up just 10.8% of active physicians and 6.8% of academic faculty.

Notably, 86% of these physicians practice in underserved areas or return to their home communities, enhancing care where it’s needed most.

A Funding to Advance Bold Ideas

The RWJF grant supports the foundation’s commitment to investing in medical schools at HBCUs and minority-serving institutions. Despite limited resources, these schools play a crucial role in educating physicians of color. HBCUs produce nearly 70% of the nation’s Black physicians and dentists, despite having just 3% of U.S. medical schools.

“The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s support underscores the importance of strategic philanthropy in advancing bold ideas,” said Endia DeCordova, vice president for Institutional Advancement at Morgan.

“This funding will enable us to develop a sustainable, mission-driven model for medical education that aligns with our commitment to equity and access. We are grateful to RWJF for recognizing Morgan’s leadership and investing in the next generation of health care professionals,” he added.

Morgan’s planned medical school will help address Maryland’s pressing healthcare needs. The state is facing growing shortages in primary and specialty care, with underserved communities being hit hardest. Morgan will focus on producing culturally competent physicians, expanding primary care, and researching health inequities.

With RWJF funding, the University will collaborate with partners to shape the medical school’s curriculum, facilities, and funding model. The goal is to create a national model for inclusive excellence in medical education.

Main Image: Holmes Hall, Morgan State University, Creative Commons License