Before his role at the Star Tribune, Morris’ distinguished career is highlighted by nearly 30 years at The Plain Dealer in Cleveland, Ohio where he served as a longtime editorial writer and metro columnist. Twice a Pulitzer Prize finalist in the category of commentary, Morris has won a variety of awards and honors. They include the Robert J. McGruder Diversity in Media Distinguished Leadership Award from Kent State University, the Distinguished Writing Award for Commentary from the American Society of News Editors, a Salute to Excellence Winner from the National Association of Black Journalists and multiple National Headliner Awards.

In addition to a long journalism career in Ohio, Morris wrote several magazine pieces as a contributing writer for National Geographic Magazine about race relations in America following the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis. He also authored cover stories on the COVID-19 pandemic and the death penalty.