A Heart for Community and Philanthropy

Meagan Harris never imagined that a golf recruitment pitch would lead her to a lifelong connection with McMurry University and a fulfilling career in philanthropy. Raised in Merkel, just 20 miles from Abilene, Meagan was drawn to McMurry by the opportunity to play for the women's golf team under the guidance of coach Russ Evans. Staying close to home while pursuing both her athletic and academic aspirations felt like the perfect fit. In 2008, she graduated with a degree in Business Administration, focusing on Marketing-an education that would later serve as the foundation for her work in the nonprofit sector.

During her time at McMurry, Meagan formed lasting connections, particularly with one of her favorite professors, Johnny Cornelius. His humor, instruction, and warmth left an indelible mark on her experience. Beyond the classroom, one of her most cherished memories was leading the women's golf team to victory in the American Southwest Conference Championship during her senior year. The moment was made even sweeter as she shared it with her younger sister, Monica, a freshman on the team. Just one day after her graduation, she and her teammates boarded a plane to Iowa to compete in the Division III National Championship-an unforgettable experience.

Though her post-college journey initially took her through the banking and golf industries, Meagan eventually found her calling in nonprofit work. "God has a funny way of redirecting you from time to time," she reflects. Her interest in philanthropy sparked when she discovered community foundations, a world previously unfamiliar to her. She took a leap of faith, applying for an executive assistant position at the Permian Basin Area Foundation. From there, doors opened, and over the next decade, she built a career dedicated to serving communities through grantmaking and nonprofit support.

As a grant director, Meagan experiences both the challenges and the deeply rewarding aspects of philanthropy. One of the toughest parts of her job is saying no to great organizations due to limited funding. However, the rewards far outweigh the difficulties. She has cultivated relationships across West-Central Texas and previously in the Trans-Pecos region, working closely with what she fondly calls the "spark plugs"-those individuals who ignite change in their communities. "There is nothing more fun than rallying behind individuals to support the greater needs of the community," she shares. "I truly get to see the good in the world."

Since joining the Community Foundation of Abilene in 2022, Meagan has spearheaded initiatives aimed at revitalizing rural communities. Through funding from the late Dr. Paula A. Windham's estate, she works to strengthen historically underserved areas within a 150-mile radius of Oplin, TX. Her efforts go beyond grantmaking; she also leads educational programs like CFA Learn and the Nonprofit Leadership Academy of West-Central Texas, equipping rural organizations with the tools they need to be sustainable and effective. "By investing in these areas, we help strengthen the fabric of rural Texas and ensure these communities have the resources to grow and thrive," she explains. "We all win with a stronger region."

Looking back, Meagan credits McMurry for shaping her values and perspective in ways she didn't fully recognize at the time. The university's spirit of service and community took root in her life, influencing her approach to leadership and philanthropy. McMurry also instilled in her the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and adaptability-lessons she learned both in the classroom and on the golf course.

For students interested in nonprofit work, grant writing, or rural development, Meagan offers simple but powerful advice: "Lean in, learn, and be willing to grow." She encourages students to start by volunteering, asking questions, and building relationships within the field. "Nonprofits are the backbone of communities," she emphasizes. "It takes grit, strategy, leadership, and innovation-just like any other sector. And most importantly, never underestimate the impact you can have. If you feel called to the nonprofit sector, go all in!"

Through her work, Meagan Harris continues to embody the values of service, leadership, and community that McMurry fosters in its students. As she carries forward the university's legacy, she remains deeply committed to making a difference-one community at a time.

Ala Cumba!

Do you or an alum you know have a great post-McMurry story? We'd love to feature YOU! Contact the Alumni Office at alumni@mcm.edu to schedule an interview.