With Decades of Experience as an Educational Leader, Carl Harris ’98EDD Named NC State College of Education Board Chair

With decades of experience as a leader in the field of education, Carl Harris ’98EDD began serving as the new NC State College of Education Board chair on March 8.

Harris, who earned his Ed.D. in education administration from the NC State College of Education, has been a board member since 2013. Throughout his career he has served in numerous educational leadership positions, including as superintendent of Durham Public Schools and as deputy assistant secretary for policy and state technical assistance in the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education within the United States Department of Education.

Harris is looking forward to bringing his leadership experience to his new role.

“I am grateful to be part of an amazing team of individuals and professionals who care deeply about supporting the ongoing educational growth of students, educators and the broader communities,” Harris said. “It is my goal that every board member has ongoing opportunities to use their vision, knowledge and interests in meaningful ways that support the continued progress of the college.”

Harris has been honored with multiple awards and distinctions for his contributions to education. In 2008, he received the University Council for Educational Administration Educational Leadership Award, becoming one of 33 educators recognized nationally and the only educator in North Carolina to receive the honor. In 2010, he received the Order of the Long Leaf Pine Award, the most prestigious award presented by the governor of North Carolina, and in 2011, he also received the NC State College of Education Distinguished Alumni Award.

In addition to his roles as classroom teacher, coach and district office administrator, Harris has served on the leadership teams of various professional organizations and is a past president of the North Carolina Association of School Administrators.  

As chair of the College of Education Board, Harris will lead a board that promotes the welfare and future development of the college through advocacy, consultation, fundraising and service and  helps connect people to the mission and vision of the College of Education.