Thirty years after graduating from Hampton University, Paul C. Harris is back on campus as its senior vice president, a new role in President William Harvey’s administration.
Harris, 52, said that he has fulfilled three life dreams since graduating with his political science degree — being a soldier, a lawyer and be a public servant.
He served in the Army for four years, and then obtained a law degree from George Washington University and practiced for years. He also served in public office as a two-time state delegate. He was appointed to the federal Department of Justice by President George W. Bush in 2001, and also served on HU’s Board of trustees from 2014 until this year.
“I feel that this new opportunity is a part of the leadership journey that began here 34 years ago when I was a freshman … I am incredibly fortunate to have this opportunity to positively influence students who will become the next generation of leaders,” Harris said. “Hampton is a very special place. It was a transformative experience for me. It is a real privilege for me to be back home and to be in the place where the life experiences that I underwent here as a student contributed mightily to my development of character and sense of confidence.”
Harris said the new position is part of Harvey’s plans for HU’s future
“I think it’s all a part of Dr. Harvey’s commitment to ensuring that he is focused on not only Hampton now but Hampton in the future and having qualified people in the right positions within the administration to ensure that Hampton continues to do well going into the future. I think strategic planning is something that he is always focused on and giving a lot of time and attention to. The creation of this position is a reflection of his strategic thinking and commitment to ensuring that he has a good team in place to take Hampton to the next level.”