Natalia Sharisse Harris holds a Master's in Social Work from Eastern Michigan University. She is CEO of Natalia Sharisse, LLC. Her previous professional work experience include program administrator for Uprep Opening Doors program at Eastern Michigan University, Community Outreach Coordinator for Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office and she worked for the Student Advocacy Center of Michigan as a Check and Connect Mentor, a drop-out prevention program. She has been the recipient of the Ann Arbor Jaycee’s Outstanding Young Michigander award, and the Southeast Michigan Student of the Year award by the National Association of Social Workers Michigan Chapter. Community welfare and social and criminal justice are issues close to her heart. She herself was once a homeless teen and has witnessed those around her failed by the systems in place. Specifically, Natalia has witnessed her older brothers’ experience with the criminal justice system, which led her to realize the criminal justice system wasn’t working as well as it could. Natalia’s personal experiences have inspired her to give back. She is an avid philanthropist. She has generously donated both her time and effort to various community organizations that devote themselves to social and civic reform. In addition to her philanthropic work, her job with Student Advocacy Center of Michigan, and her achievements in higher education, Natalia is mother to three daughters, a published writer, a spoken word poet, and an experienced public speaker.
