BIO

Anthony J. Harris was born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. He was an active participant in the local Civil Rights Movement and has been a champion for social justice for the greater part of his life. Dr. Harris has published numerous scholarly articles and the following books: Fruits of a Disgraced Legacy; It’s What’s on the Inside; Gifts of Moments: Being Somebody to Somebody; Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me ‘Round; Faith, Family, Friends, Freedom: The Life and Legacy of Daisy Harris Wade; That Which You do Most Often…Is That Which You Do Best. In his books, he draws upon life lessons learned through years of commitment to and advocacy for social justice, education, and human rights. 

Dr. Harris has been featured in PBS documentary, Freedom Summer, and conducts keynote addresses on topics pertaining to the Civil Rights Movement, the educational success of young black males, and leadership. Dr. Harris currently serves as Chair of the Department of Educational Leadership at Sam Houston State University. He previously worked as an administrator and faculty member at Texas A&M University-Commerce, Mercer University, and the University of Southern Mississippi. He and his wife, Smithenia, have two adult children, Ashley and Michael.