Dr. Dira Harris

 

Carma Spence describes fire starters as those who ignite, fuel, and accelerate the minds of others by expanding opportunity. That is Dr. Dira Harris—a leader, innovator, and fire starter whose career reflects passion, integrity, and transformative impact.

With 20+ years in education—from assistant teacher to principal and now Director of Leadership Development—Dr. Harris has sparked growth at every level. She has
taught elementary through collegiate students and previously served as an Ombudsman for the Georgia Department of Defense.

A proud Clark Atlanta University alum, after attending John Marshall Law School, Dr. Harris later earned a master's, specialist, and doctorate in education, equipping her to lead school improvement and reform efforts across the district. She has presented at
major conferences nationwide and has been recognized as a Support Leader of the Year
and a high-performing leadership award recipient.

Beyond her professional role, Dr. Harris’s fire burns through authorship, ministry, advocacy, and service in mental health and prison outreach. Her book, The Role of I in Commitment, furthers her mission to help others rise.

Dr. Harris embodies the fire starter spirit—igniting vision, resilience, and positive change wherever she leads. She is grounded by her husband, Jerome, and their twin sons as they journey together in faith, family, and service.