Nina Harris is an influencer for justice and servant leader, serving in numerous senior executive capacities throughout her career. She is the first woman to be installed as President and Chief Executive of the Springfield Urban League Inc., appointed to the position in February 2004. Under her leadership, the Affiliate experienced expansion of its social entrepreneurship initiatives, workforce training and economic development endeavors, and early childhood education and youth education intervention services. In 2007, she founded the Agency’s Health Initiatives, an advocacy and research arm working towards improvement in population health and life quality. Under her leadership, the Affiliate has received national awards for innovation and excellence.
Ms. Harris is a Springfield native and serves and has served on a number of national, community-based and corporate boards, and advisory councils. She began her tenure with the Springfield Urban League Inc. in 1990 as a member of its Board of Directors. Her academic preparation includes an undergraduate degree and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Illinois at Springfield.