Alumna Ascends In Education

As a servant leader, alumna Rahesha Harrison’s model of cultivating and developing leaders has elevated the academic and social profile of a New York education district. 

Harrison was recently named the New York City Department of Education senior executive director for Leadership and Professional Learning. In this role, Harrison is responsible for facilitating the development, implementation and evaluation of leadership initiatives for senior leadership within the organization. 

Most recently, Harrison served as a community superintendent for Brooklyn School District 16. Under her leadership, the district received accolades from New York City Mayor Bill DeBlasio and School Chancellor Richard Carranza for having the highest increase in student success in English, language arts and mathematics. 

In 2018, she was honored with the NCCU National Alumni Association’s Distinguished Alumni award.

Also active in the community, Harrison serves on New York’s Supportive Children's Advocacy Network board of directors.

Harrison earned a Bachelor of Science in history and education from NCCU in 1993. She holds a Master of Education in educational leadership and administration from Fordham University and is currently completing coursework for an Ed.D. in leadership and innovation from New York University. 

She also completed course work at the Harvard Principals’ Center Program and the Teachers College of Columbia University’s Cahn Fellows Program. 

“Find your passion. When work connects to your core values and passion, it will add to your life and feel less like work,” she advises future educators.