MIchelle Harris
Director of Engagement & Marketing/PIO
Haywood Community College
Clyde, NC
How has Michelle demonstrated outstanding leadership at Haywood Community College (HCC)? Michelle’s leadership has been especially visible in two key areas: the NC Reconnect initiative and the college’s communications response following Hurricane Helene. With NC Reconnect, Michelle designed and implemented a targeted communications strategy to re-engage adult learners, combining data-informed messaging, personalized outreach and compelling storytelling. Her efforts led to increased enrollment and reinforced our reputation as a college committed to supporting adult students. Following Hurricane Helene, Michelle ensured timely, accurate updates across all channels, keeping students and employees informed, connected and supported. Her work in that critical moment strengthened trust and underscored the essential role of communications in crisis response.
How has Michelle made a difference in marketing HCC? Michelle has elevated the college’s brand through cohesive messaging, innovative campaigns and strong cross-campus collaboration. She leads her team with integrity and creativity, always seeking ways to improve how we tell our story and serve our community. Michelle doesn’t simply manage marketing; she leads with purpose. Her work reflects our mission and responds to the real needs of students.
How has Michelle worked to advance the profession as a whole? Michelle does her best to stay on top of trends and support others in this profession. She serves on a North Carolina marketing group board, which plans an annual conference for North Carolina community college professionals. This group is looking to expand its work to offer additional training opportunities throughout the year. She is part of a regional group of PIOs who work at government agencies, which has proved beneficial to not only make contacts but also learn about crisis communication trends.
Michelle Harris has been the Director of Marketing & Engagement/Public Information Officer at Haywood Community College (HCC) for six years, following 14 years in corporate marketing. At HCC, she oversees the Print Shop, manages the recruitment team, implemented a CRM and a new website. She also led the NCReconnect adult learner initiative and co-chairs the Strategic Enrollment Management Plan. A founding member of the NCMPR Leadership Institute, Michelle thrives on wearing many hats and managing projects that drive student and community engagement. Her free time consists of all things “crafty” and glamping with her husband.
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