Meet Gabrielle Harris, a senior at Athens State University from Cullman, Alabama. Harris is pursuing a Bachelor of Education with a concentration in Health and Physical Education. She anticipates graduating in the Fall of 2025.
Choosing Athens State was an easy decision for Harris. She was told of the positive experience that two coworkers had at the University and felt confident Athens State was the right place for her to complete her bachelor’s degree. Harris’s journey at Athens State has been marked by fostering a sense of community and seeking opportunities for personal and professional growth. Harris embraces student involvement at Athens State and holds a position with the Bonner Leader Program (BLP). Harris is also a member of the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society.
The BLP is a fellowship program for undergraduate students who have financial needs (qualify for Federal Work-Study), exhibit a capacity for leadership development, and show an interest in community service. Bonner Leaders receive leadership development throughout the year while completing more than 200 hours of service-learning within the local community. Bonner Leaders also receive a financial support package that includes a work-study position and a scholarship for community work and weekly training.
“Being a member of BLP has significantly increased my overall skill level, both personally and professionally,” said Harris. “I recently began helping more with programming and orientation for new Bonners as a member of the Bonner Leadership Team.”
Harris shared her positive experiences at Athens State thus far, expressing gratitude for her campus community and the growth opportunities made available to her. During her time at Athens State, Harris has also gained lasting connections and skills vital for her future career. Athens State has not only prepared her academically but has also provided practical experiences, such as tutoring and working with children with disabilities and behavioral challenges.
“I want to be a positive voice for children and adults in a negative world,” said Harris when asked about what comes to mind regarding her future career. “Athens State has given me so much and built my confidence to be a positive influence.”
Gabrielle Harris embodies a spirit of leadership, service, and a commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others. Her journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of education and community engagement at Athens State University.
About the Bonner Leader Program
The Bonner Leader Program is a fellowship program for undergraduate students who have financial needs (qualify for Federal Work-Study), exhibit a capacity for leadership development, and show an interest in community service. A Bonner Leader will receive leadership development throughout the year while completing significant service-learning (280+ hours/year) within their local community. A Bonner Leader will receive a financial support package that includes a work-study position and a scholarship for community work and weekly training. Learn more HERE.
About the College of Education
The mission of the College of Education (COE) at Athens State University is to prepare teacher candidates to become reflective practitioners who are knowledgeable and collaborative professionals. The College of Education provides quality programs that meet the educational needs of ever-changing student populations. In accordance with our mission, continual assessment-based improvements are being made. Our goal is to provide rigorous yet flexible programs for students that encourage wider skill sets with multiple credentials. Learn more about the College of Education HERE.