Leslie Harris appointed to Journal of First-Generation Student Success editorial board
Leslie Harris, Ed.D., events and initiatives manager for Georgia Southern University’s Academic Success Center, has been appointed to a three-year term on the editorial board for the Journal of First-Generation Student Success.
"I am thrilled to have the opportunity to serve on the editorial board for the Journal," Harris said. "So far in my career, I have had the opportunity to develop my skills as a practitioner within the field as well as a scholar. Both of these aspects of my development have always remained connected to advocating for all students, including those who are first-generation college students."
As a proud first-generation graduate, Harris has been committed to working with students and advocating for their needs to be successful while in college. This dedication has allowed her to work in different capacities during her eight years at Georgia Southern. Though committed to helping all students, Harris is passionate about aiding first-generation college students in their journey to achieve academic excellence.
Through the deep intersectionality of the first-generation identity, the large presence of first-generation students at institutions and the necessary engagement of both academic and student services areas for success, this journal offers many opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration.
In her current role, Harris oversees student success initiatives, including the Keep Hope Alive Scholarship Program and first-gen initiatives. Previously, she served as the coordinator of Academic Success and the director of TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) on the Statesboro Campus, where she led a team to provide programs and services to first-generation college students, students from limited-income backgrounds and students who identify with a disability.
"As educators, we must form partnerships with students that can lead to them seeing their true potential,” Harris said. “Therefore, I serve as a mentor and advocate to help improve learning and provide pathways to graduation so that students can become active and self-directed learners and professionals.”
The Journal of First-Gen Student Success is a publication owned and managed by FirstGen Forward. Learn more about the Journal here.