Jessica Harris, PhD, Appointed Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff at SIUE

Jessica Harris, PhD, Appointed Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff at SIUE

Jessica Harris, PhD, has been appointed Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff following a national search. Dr. Harris' appointment is effective March 2. Harris has served as Vice Chancellor for Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI) since March of 2021. Prior to that role, she served as Assistant Provost for Academic Equity and Inclusive Excellence from 2018 to 2021 and is also an Associate Professor in the Department of History.

"During her 14 years at SIUE, Dr. Harris has built strong relationships across campus, thoughtfully helped navigate complex organizational challenges, and led with transparency and collaboration," said Chancellor James T. Minor, PhD. "She has a proven record of translating vision into action, aligning teams to achieve shared goals, and delivering measurable results. Her commitment to SIUE's mission and deep understanding of the University's strategic priorities, along with the respect she has earned from colleagues, positions her well for this next chapter of leadership and service."

As Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff, Harris will serve as a key strategic partner and liaison among divisions, departments and external stakeholders. She will support coordinated decision making, improve operational effectiveness, and help drive institutional initiatives forward in alignment with the University's strategic plan.

"I am truly honored to be appointed Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff, and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving this remarkable community-an institution that has been my professional home for the past 14 years," said Harris. "I look forward to working closely with the senior leadership team to advance our strategic priorities, strengthen collaboration across the university, and further support the success of our students, faculty, and staff."

The University will launch a search for the next Vice Chancellor for ADEI. In the interim, the ADEI division will continue to report to Harris until a successor is named.

PHOTO: Jessica Harris, PhD, has been appointed Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff