Stephanie James Harris

Roles & Affiliations

Dr. Stephanie James Harris is the Director of the Africana Studies Program at Seton Hall University's College of Arts and Sciences. She previously served as Executive Director of the New Jersey Amistad Commission, shaping educational policy to ensure inclusive African American content in curricula. She currently holds a Professor rank in Africana Studies and has adjunct teaching experience at multiple institutions.

Education

• Ph.D. in Africology and African American Studies - Temple University
• MA in Africology and African American Studies - Temple University
• BA in English - University of Maryland College Park
• BS in African American Studies - University of Maryland College Park

Research Focus

Dr. Harris specializes in contextualizing African American history through interdisciplinary approaches, emphasizing the use of visual and cultural artifacts in education. Her work centers on deconstructing historical inaccuracies, promoting cultural competency, and integrating marginalized narratives into mainstream curricula. She advocates for culturally relevant pedagogy as a cornerstone of 21st-century educational leadership.

Awards & Recognition

• Recipient of multiple awards for public policy, education, and community service
• Recognized for contributions to social justice through educational reform

Grants & Leadership

Spearheaded the development of the Amistad Commission's web-based curriculum and professional development programs. Served on New Jersey's Social Studies standards revision team and multiple educational advisory boards. Previously held elected positions in local education governance.

Professional Affiliations

Active member of organizations including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, the African American Museum Association, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). Maintains leadership roles in cultural institutions and community foundations.