Remembering Devoted Leader, Alumnus and Friend Jim Harris

Photo by University Relations

Jim Harris

U of A alumnus and dear friend Jim Harris passed away on Tuesday, April 25, 2023. Harris is remembered for his generous and humble nature and passion for the U of A and Razorback athletics.

As a first-generation college graduate, Harris was inspired to help others. He and his wife, Jana, established the Jim and Jana Harris Advance Arkansas Scholarship in 2018, supporting first-generation college students from Carroll County.

Harris was inspired by the Advance Arkansas initiative’s focus on providing financial aid to need-based students from Arkansas. When establishing the scholarship, he said, “If you can get the first generation of a family to go to college, you can build upon that legacy.”

Harris joined the university as associate director of planned giving in 2000 and then served as director and counsel of the Office of Planned Giving. He also served as associate vice chancellor for university advancement prior to retiring after 22 years of service. 

“It was an absolute honor working with Jim,” said Kellie Knight, assistant vice chancellor for foundation relations. “I admired how he connected with donors about creating legacy gifts. Jim will be greatly missed, yet his incredible impact through securing philanthropic support lives on at the university.”

Harris built many long-lasting relationships with friends and colleagues across campus, throughout the state and beyond. He is fondly remembered by many as a great leader and mentor.

Under his leadership, the planned giving team successfully completed two capital campaigns raising more than $415 million for students, faculty and programs at the university. Harris’ deep commitment to the university’s mission and ability to bring laughter to his colleagues and friends will forever be part of his treasured legacy.

“Jim was an extraordinary person, respected colleague and ultimate ambassador for the university,” said Scott Varady, vice chancellor for advancement. “He always worked for the best interests of the university with a heart of gold and a great sense of humor. His contributions are enduring.”

Harris is survived by his wife, Jana, sons Jack Harris and wife, Rebecca, of Roseville, California; and John Harris of Fayetteville. Harris was a member of Cross Church in Springdale and served on the Arkansas Baptist Foundation Board of Directors. Harris was a life member of the Arkansas Alumni Association and member of the Towers of Old Main giving society.

A celebration of life was held on Saturday, April 29, at Cross Church in Springdale. In memory of Harris, contributions can be made to the Jim and Jana Harris Advance Arkansas Scholarship Fund by contacting the Office of Gift Administration at (479) 575-5507 or by going to giving.uark.edu and selecting another department, program or fund and listing the scholarship name.

About University Advancement: University Advancement advances the mission of the University of Arkansas by raising private gift support from alumni, friends, parents, foundations, corporations and other institutional supporters. Working in philanthropic partnership with academic leaders and volunteers, Advancement team members are determined to advance the people, work and impact of the greater whole at the University of Arkansas.

About the University of Arkansas: As Arkansas' flagship institution, the U of A provides an internationally competitive education in more than 200 academic programs. Founded in 1871, the U of A contributes more than $2.2 billion to Arkansas’ economy through the teaching of new knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship and job development, discovery through research and creative activity while also providing training for professional disciplines. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the U of A among the few U.S. colleges and universities with the highest level of research activity. U.S. News & World Report ranks the U of A among the top public universities in the nation. See how the U of A works to build a better world at Arkansas Research and Economic Development News.