#IFKYK: Dr. Jacci Harris
Dr. Jacci Harris
Access 7 Services, Inc., Executive Director
Cedarmore Corporation, Board Chairperson
NAACP Freeport/Roosevelt Branch, 1st Vice President
Background: How has the NAACP shaped your journey, and who inspired you?
The NAACP has shaped my journey by leading the charge in providing essential leadership, support, information, and resources to our communities. It unites like-minded individuals, empowering neighbors, friends, and families to overcome barriers and rise together. I draw immense inspiration from Dr. Hazel Dukes and her unwavering dedication to leadership and service.
Purpose: Why do you do the work you’re doing today?
I do this work because I find joy in helping others. After nearly 40 years as an educator, I’ve learned the value of knowledge and the importance of sharing it—paying it forward and empowering others. Meaningful change isn’t achieved alone. It happens when we teach, inspire, and encourage one another to pursue excellence. Serving children with special needs, along with their parents, families, educators, and communities, is a deeply fulfilling mission for me.
Insight: What is one thing most people don’t know but should?
Luke 12:48 offers a powerful message on leadership and responsibility: "To whom much is given, much will be required." This verse reminds us that we are accountable for our blessings. If we have talents, skills, or knowledge, we are called to use them to glorify God and support others. Each of us has been given unique gifts, and true faithfulness lies in managing them wisely and generously.
More about Dr. Harris
Dr. Jacqueline Harris is a highly regarded educator with over 35 years of experience in school leadership, programming, and curriculum development. She currently holds the position of Board Chairperson for the Cedarmore Corporation, a nonprofit community service agency located in Freeport. Dr. Harris's leadership has been instrumental in implementing culturally relevant programs within the Cynthia P. Roberts Youth Empowerment Series. This series encompasses several significant initiatives, including Girlz Talk, Collegeology, Continuing the Conversation, Readers Become Leaders, and the Girlz Talk Book Club, all designed to support underserved youth.
As Executive Director of Access 7 Services, Inc., Dr. Harris is critically involved in branding, service coordination, recruitment, and overall operational management. Access 7 Services, Inc. is a well-respected agency that provides specialized educational supports and services to children with special needs, as well as their families and school districts throughout Long Island. Dr. Harris derives substantial fulfillment from her role, as it allows her to deliver exceptional care to children requiring distinct support.
Dr. Harris possesses degrees from Cheyney University, LIU C.W. Post, the College of New Rochelle, and St. John’s University. Her pioneering research addressing issues of disproportionality, access, and equity has received recognition at local, regional, and national levels.
Demonstrating an unwavering commitment to education and advocacy, Dr. Jacci Harris has recently been elected Vice President of the Freeport/Roosevelt Branch of the NAACP, where she continues to effectuate a significant impact on the lives of underserved youth across Long Island.