Mollie Harris, ’06 ’13 ’21, was awarded with the Young Alumni Award from Eastern Kentucky University (EKU). The Best of Eastern Alumni Awards, presented annually during Homecoming weekend, celebrate excellence among EKU alumni. The Young Alumni Award recognizes individuals who graduated from EKU in the last 10 years and have demonstrated exceptional talent in their professions.
From Laurel County, Kentucky, to EKU, Harris has carried with her the guiding principles of family, service and resilience. A proud mother of two, Harris describes family as the heart of who she is—and the reason she works tirelessly to make her community a safer, better place for all families.
Her EKU journey began with a bachelor’s in social work in 2006, later expanding into a master’s in 2013 and a Master of Social Work in 2021. Working, pursuing graduate studies and raising a family was no easy feat, but for Harris, every challenge became a lesson and an opportunity to grow. Earning her license as a clinical social worker stands as a testament not only to her dedication but to her deep commitment to serving others.
“I’ve faced challenges that tested both my patience and perseverance whether it was balancing work with graduate school, navigating complex client cases or managing the emotional demands of the social work profession,” said Harris. “These challenges taught me how to lead through uncertainty, set boundaries and build stronger support systems. They’ve made me a more empathetic professional and a more grounded leader, better equipped to advocate for others and inspire resilience in the people I serve.”
For the past 10 years, Harris has served as violence prevention manager at CHI Saint Joseph London, where her leadership has strengthened families across the tri-county area. She also serves as clinical manager for Cultivate Behavioral Health, extending her impact to even more children and families in need of care and support. She has earned certification as a pediatric head trauma trainer, human trafficking trainer and infant massage instructor, all in service of educating and protecting children. Her impact has been recognized through the honor of Kentucky Colonel, completion of Leadership Tri-County and multiple accolades from EKU—including Social Work Student of the Year, Alumni of the Year and Social Worker of the Year.
Harris remains deeply connected to her alma mater, mentoring students, providing field placements and serving on the Social Work Advisory Council. Her advice to others is simple but profound: stay curious, take opportunities and never underestimate your own potential.
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