Meet Our President
Dr. Racquel Harris is a distinguished human resources executive, business strategist, educator, and community leader with more than 25 years of executive-level experience. As President and Chief Strategy Officer of R. L. Harris & Associates, LLC, she provides organizations with strategic guidance in human resources, organizational development, regulatory compliance, leadership training, risk management, and workforce transformation.
Recognized for her ability to connect people strategy with organizational performance, Dr. Harris helps leaders navigate complex workplace challenges, strengthen operational effectiveness, and build compliant, high-performing organizations. Her expertise includes labor and employee relations, federal and state employment law, executive coaching, strategic workforce planning, organizational risk, policy development, and the alignment of human resources practices with broader business objectives.
Dr. Harris holds dual professional certifications in Human Resources and Risk Management. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Communication from Indiana University, a Master of Business Administration from Purdue University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Theology from N. C. Theological Seminary. Her multidisciplinary background gives her a distinctive ability to approach leadership through the combined lenses of business strategy, communication, ethics, service, and organizational accountability.
A respected advocate for professional development, Dr. Harris understands that exceptional organizations are built through intentional leadership and continuous learning. She has designed and delivered professional training programs that equip executives, managers, employees, and emerging professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to lead effectively, manage workplace risk, and achieve sustainable results.
Her leadership has extended throughout the human resources profession. Dr. Harris previously served as President of the Michiana Chapter of the Society for Human Resource Management and as a member of the Indiana SHRM State Council. Through these roles, she contributed to the advancement of the HR profession while promoting ethical leadership, professional excellence, and sound employment practices.
Dr. Harris has received numerous honors recognizing her leadership, service, and professional contributions. Her distinctions include the Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major Award, presented by former Mayor Jeff Rea; the 40 Under 40 Award from the St. Joseph County Chamber of Commerce; the Seven Seals Award from Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve; and the Michiana SHRM Leader of the Year Award. She has also been recognized by Influential Women Magazine for her contributions to the human resources industry and nonprofit sector.
Widely regarded as a servant leader, Dr. Harris serves on numerous boards and committees and remains deeply committed to community advancement. She regularly contributes her expertise through employment-readiness programs, professional skills training, leadership development, and initiatives designed to help individuals overcome barriers and prepare for meaningful employment.
Through every dimension of her work, Dr. Harris remains committed to developing leaders, strengthening organizations, and creating opportunities for others to achieve lasting success.