George C. Wright, president of Prairie View A&M University, welcomed Harris and stated: “Dr. Harris is a distinguished researcher and scholar with a wealth of administrative experience. His record in aerospace engineering and energy conservation are assets to our university,” adding, “Through his established leadership and desire to cultivate students, our College of Engineering will continue to flourish and produce talent and research for Texas, our nation and the world.”

Harris began tenure at PVAMU in 2005, as associate dean and professor of mechanical engineering. Under his leadership, an Engineering Success Center was launched, offering supplemental instruction for freshman and sophomore students and a new freshman course that introduces fundamental engineering, computer science and technology concepts to first-year students.

“As the new dean of the college of engineering, one of my top priorities is to ensure that the college becomes one of the foremost engineering colleges in the nation,” Harris says. “My long-term goal is to place the college among the global leaders in engineering education, research and service.”

Dr. Harris’ external research efforts have garnered more than $3.2 million in research and program funding. Through collaborations with NASA and public and private partnerships, the college houses seven research centers. Recently, a new electrical engineering building was opened and the department graduated its first doctoral degree student in electrical engineering.

There are currently more than 900 students enrolled in six departments: chemical engineering, civil engineering, computer science, electrical and computer engineering, engineering technology and mechanical engineering.

In 1993, Harris graduated from Naval Aviation School as naval officer and aviator. He holds a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering from University of Kansas and a master’s and doctoral degree in MechE from University of Mississippi. He is married to Shundra, an interior designer and engineer.