Vernon Morris, a pioneering figure in atmospheric sciences, established the first PhD-granting graduate program in atmospheric sciences at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in 2001 at Howard University in Washington, D.C., aiming to address the underrepresentation of Black scientists in the field. The program, which Morris founded as a professor at Howard, produced at least 50 African American and 30 Latinx PhD graduates in atmospheric sciences in the United States between 2006 and 2018. This initiative significantly increased the number of Black atmospheric scientists, a field where Morris himself was a rarity, having been the first African American to earn a doctorate in Earth and atmospheric sciences from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 1991.

Morris recognized the need for systemic change early in his career, joining fewer than a dozen other Black atmospheric sciences PhD holders in the United States at the time. His program at Howard University sought to provide opportunities and mentorship that were previously lacking for aspiring Black scientists in this specialized area. Atmospheric science involves the study of the Earth's atmosphere, including weather patterns, climate change, and air quality, requiring expertise in physics, chemistry, and mathematics.

The impact of Morris's program extends beyond academia. Graduates have gone on to work in government agencies, research institutions, and private sector companies, contributing to advancements in climate modeling, weather forecasting, and environmental policy. By increasing diversity in the field, the program has also fostered a broader range of perspectives and approaches to addressing complex environmental challenges.

"Something needed to change to create more opportunities for Black scientists in his field," Morris stated, reflecting on the motivation behind establishing the program. Alumni from the atmospheric sciences PhD programme he established at Howard University in Washington DC credit Morris with creating a supportive and rigorous academic environment that prepared them for success in their careers.

The program's success serves as a model for other institutions seeking to promote diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. By providing targeted support and resources to underrepresented groups, universities can help to create a more equitable and innovative scientific community. The legacy of Morris's work continues to inspire efforts to broaden participation in atmospheric sciences and related disciplines.