Terrius Harris
Obama Scholar @Obama Foundation
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WORK HISTORY
Obama Scholar @Obama Foundation
Chicago, IL, US
Chosen as 1 of 30 scholars worldwide, the Obama Foundation Scholars program gives rising leaders from around the world who are already making a difference in their communities the opportunity to take their work to the next level. Specifically, I was chosen for my work in empowering Indigenous-led, community-based economic & social development, entrepreneurship, and environmental conservation through a community-driven approach. Consequently, during my time in the program, I- Participated in a rigorous academic and leadership development program at the University of Chicago, focusing on interdisciplinary approaches to solving complex global issues- Engaged in community-engaged partnerships on the South Side of Chicago to develop scalable solutions for global social challenges- Joined Community Impact Seminars and Quarterly Civic Treks, learning from faculty, civic leaders, and community activists to bridge research with community upliftment- Gained exclusive opportunities to engage with high-level leaders, including the Institute of Politics Pritzker Fellows, and received mentorship from accomplished professionals- Developed and refined a required action plan pertaining to my initiative and future vision, supported by tailored coaching and expertise in strategic communications and fundraising. Specifically, this included my planning and creation of the Indigenous Youth Climate Resiliency Through Public Policy Program a 13-week-long initiative aimed at equipping a select cohort of 20 young individuals, aged 18-30, from diverse U.S. Indigenous communities with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive change through a policy-oriented lens.
EDUCATION
Chaminade University of Honolulu
Graduate Special Student, Instructional Leadership
University of Oklahoma
Master’s Degree in Indigenous Peoples Law (concentration in Water, Natural Resources & the Enviro.), Indigenous Peoples Relations, Law, Policy and Environmental Studies
Mccomb High School
High School, General Studies / Fashion & Interior Design
University of Mississippi
Bachelor's Degree, International Business, French, and General Studies (Journalism, International Studies, & Sociology)
University of Chicago
Master of Public Policy, Energy & Environmental Policy, International Policy & Development, and Global Conflict Studies
ABOUT TERRIUS HARRIS
Community is the foundation of identity, resilience, and transformation. Every movement, every policy shift, and every act of progress begins with people coming together, united by a shared vision of a better world. My life’s mission is to build bridges where doors have not existed, creating partnerships that open new opportunities for Indigenous communities and beyond.As an expert in policy, strategic partnerships, education, economic development, and Indigenous advocacy, I’ve dedicated my career to breaking barriers, forging connections, and amplifying voices that have long been unheard of. From crafting federal policy on Capitol Hill to leading national recruitment and workforce initiatives, my work has always centered on bringing people together to drive systemic change. Whether expanding economic opportunities for Indigenous businesses, shaping sustainable conservation efforts, or mobilizing cross-sector collaborations, I strive to ensure that communities, especially those historically excluded, are at the heart of decision-making.My love for change is deeply personal. It’s not just about policy, legislation, or governance; it’s about building pathways for equity, justice, and shared prosperity. Policy is the blueprint of transformation, a tool that, when wielded with intention, can open doors, dismantle barriers, and empower communities to thrive. But in the absence of just and effective policy, it is community that rises, innovates, and finds solutions where systems have failed. It is in these moments, when people come together, forge connections, and turn collective resilience into action, that I am reminded why I do this work. While policy should never be a gatekeeper to opportunity, when it falls short, partnerships step in as the bridge, linking resources, amplifying voices, and ensuring that systemic change is not just possible but inevitable.The journey that led me here has been shaped by extraordinary communities, transformative experiences, and a relentless drive to create impact. Whether through my work at Teach For America, the American Sustainable Business Network, or as a legislative fellow in the U.S. Senate, I have carried with me the belief that change does not happen in isolation; it happens when we stand together, build together, and dream together.My purpose in this world is to be the ultimate bridge builder, not only for my Indigenous relatives but for all who dare to dream of a future woven with justice, sustainability, and opportunity.Our location may be something new, but the inspiration for what grows in us is not.
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