Darrell A. Harris Jr. will be representing ELC as the department’s 2017-2019 Jackson Scholar. The Jackson Scholars Network is facilitated by the University Council for Educational Administration (UCEA), the leading academic association for the study of educational administration and leadership. Through this distinct honor, Mr. Harris will benefit from formal networking, mentoring, and professional development opportunities for graduate students of color in educational leadership.
Mr. Harris is a graduate of Hampton University, North Carolina A&T, and UNCG. Most recently, he earned his Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from UNCG. Mr. Harris currently serves as a High School Principal in Guilford County, and is a second-year Doctoral student in ELC.
Through his research, he will take an in-depth look at the principalship through the unique Middle/Early College High School setting. Mr. Harris believes firmly that research-informed decision-making and problem-solving are most effective, hence, his decision to relate his research focus to his current professional role. He plans to use what he learns from his research to facilitate his professional growth and support his efforts to influence the lives of his students, particularly those who represent marginalized and traditionally under-served populations. Once his doctoral degree is complete, Mr. Harris plans to continue working in the public educational leadership field. He hopes to one day transition into the field of higher education where he can provide educational leadership preparation to aspiring principals.
Participating as a Jackson Scholar will help Mr. Harris grow professionally and provide him with the support and networking needed to publish findings from his study. It will also help expand his field’s understanding of best practices in culturally responsive school leadership in various settings. Excited and honored about his nomination, Mr. Harris is looking forward to the experiences and networking that come with being a Jackson Scholar, and the opportunity to proudly represent ELC.
Congratulations to Mr. Harris from all of us at ELC and SOE!
