The programme, which operated from 2001 to 2018, produced at least 50 African American and 30 Latinx PhD graduates in atmospheric sciences in the United States. Morris attributed the programme's success to its focus on providing students with hands-on experience and research opportunities. "We wanted to create a programme that would not only produce PhDs but also equip them with the skills and knowledge to tackle the complex issues in atmospheric sciences," Morris said in an interview.

The programme's impact extends beyond the graduates it produced. It also helped to increase diversity in the field of atmospheric sciences, which has historically been dominated by white males. According to Morris, the programme's graduates have gone on to work in various roles, including research positions at government agencies, universities, and private companies. "Our graduates have made significant contributions to the field, and we're proud of the impact they've had," Morris said.

Morris' efforts to increase diversity in atmospheric sciences are part of a larger movement to address the lack of representation of underrepresented groups in STEM fields. Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have long played a critical role in providing opportunities for students from underrepresented groups to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). The PhD programme in atmospheric sciences at Howard University was a significant step in this effort.

The programme's success has also inspired other HBCUs to establish similar programmes. For example, North Carolina A&T State University has established a PhD programme in atmospheric sciences, which is currently accepting applications. Morris' work has also been recognized by the scientific community, including a 2019 award from the American Meteorological Society for his contributions to diversity and inclusion in atmospheric sciences.

As the field of atmospheric sciences continues to evolve, Morris' legacy will be remembered as a key factor in increasing diversity and representation. His work has paved the way for future generations of scientists to pursue careers in atmospheric sciences, and his impact will be felt for years to come.