Ira David Pinson

Ira David Pinson (October 3, 1892 – July 21, 1939) was an American academic who became a professor of languages and philosophy, completing a Bachelor of Divinity at Yale University in 1920. From 1915 he was a member of the teaching faculty of Morris College, becoming its third president in 1930 as it struggled to survive the Great Depression. Within two years, he strengthened and steered the college to expansion. Pinson died in a car accident in 1939, at the age of 46.

Early life and education Pinson was one of two sons of Bessie Anna (Cash) and Reverend James A.S. Pinson. James Pinson graduated from Benedict College, Yale University, and Colgate Divinity School, establishing the Shiloh Baptist Church. Morris and Benedict College merged high schools at Morris, and Morris became a junior college, only offering the first two years of college.

Honors African-American businesses in Sumter closed in Pinson's honor on the day of his funeral.

The administration building at Morris College is named in Pinson's memory.