Grace E. Harris has retired as a distinguished professor of public policy at the leadership institute that bears her name at Virginia Commonwealth University in Richmond. Dr. Harris’ career at the university spanned 48 years and included terms as dean of the School of Social Work, provost, and acting president.
Niraj Verma, dean of the L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University, stated that “Dr. Harris leaves an impressive legacy that reflects her commitment to education and to serving the community. It has been an honor to work with such a dedicated educator whose remarkable career is a source of inspiration.”
Michael Rao, president of the university, added that “she has been an academic leader whose vision inspired others to believe that they could be part of a distinctive and premier research university. She was never interested in settling for the status quo.”
Professor Harris is a graduate of Hampton University in Virginia. She earned a master of social work degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and a master’s degree and a Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Virginia.
