about the author
Meet Dr. Richard Morris
Author. Speaker. Scholar. Survivor.
Dr. Richard Morris is more than just an author—he is living testimony that the human spirit, when anchored in faith and purpose, can overcome even the darkest circumstances. From years spent behind prison walls to earning his PhD and transforming lives, his journey is not just inspirational—it’s revolutionary.
Born and raised in an environment plagued by generational trauma, poverty, systemic injustice, and broken institutions, Richard was introduced early to pain, abandonment, and survival. His early life was a mirror of the very struggles that send so many young Black men into the criminal justice system. But unlike many, Richard broke free—not just from physical chains, but from the mental and emotional cycles that kept him bound.
From Prisoner to PhD
While incarcerated, Richard didn’t just serve time—he made time serve him. Through faith in God, an unshakable determination, and the power of education, he turned a prison cell into a sanctuary of purpose. Upon release, he pursued higher education relentlessly. He earned his undergraduate degree, followed by a master’s, and ultimately achieved his PhD, specializing in human behavior, criminal justice reform, and the intersection of trauma and transformation.
Today, Dr. Morris is a highly sought-after speaker, mentor, and advocate. He works with churches, universities, prisons, youth centers, and policymakers to challenge stereotypes, reform broken systems, and awaken others to the power of redemptive transformation.
A Voice for the Voiceless
Dr. Morris is driven by a simple mission: to bring light into dark places. He uses his testimony to give hope to the hopeless, to educate those who are misinformed, and to elevate the voices of those who have been silenced. Whether speaking to a room full of at-risk youth or addressing national conferences, his message remains the same: you are not your mistakes—your future is still being written.
Author of From Prison to PhD
In his groundbreaking memoir, From Prison to PhD, Dr. Morris invites readers into the raw, unfiltered reality of his life journey. The book is a roadmap for resilience, a guide for grace, and a call to action for justice, education, and healing.
Through his story, he is not only building bridges between communities and systems—but also between past and future, brokenness and wholeness.
Connect with Dr. Morris
- Invite him to speak at your school, church, or event
- Collaborate on youth reform or mentorship programs
- Support his mission through community initiatives