SUMTER -- This past summer, Columbia’s Solomon Jackson Jr. won $260 million in the Powerball Lottery, and he decided to give a portion to Morris College, where he went to school in the early 1970s.

“It’s something that we think of as a blessing,” said Student Body President Melvin Howard III.

Last Thursday, students and faculty were surprised by Jackson’s momentous gift.

“That kind of commitment is inspiring,” said Director of Developmental Programs Maggie Glover. 

The money will be used to renovate parts of the campus and help fund two scholarships.

“Over the last couple of days, I think our whole moral has changed,” said Howard.

The campus resonates with a feeling of pride, and for Howard, it’s a feeling that will stay with him long into his alumni years.