Known as the “comeback kid” Harris suffered a brutal car accident and other obstacles and still finished on top
REEDLEY, CA -- The 27th Annual Tiger Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Reedley, CA this past weekend featured current Reedley College dean of instructions for math, sciences, engineering and health sciences, Marie Byrd Harris, honored for her greatest accomplishments in athletics and academia during her tenure at Reedley College.
Harris received her high school diploma from Edison High School, and then continued on to Reedley College, serving on the track team from 1997 to 2000 under Coach Randy Whited. Harris helped bring the team to victory on numerous occasions: she finished second in the long jump at the Central Valley Conference Championships, third place in the triple jump at the Northern California Finals and placed in the top 10 at the state meet in both events—these were remarkable feats she completed after living through a deadly car accident which contributed to her painful back injuries thereafter. Harris was also the team captain and Co-MVP.
“Marie was an extremely hard worker,” said Coach Whited. “She was gritty, and a tough competitor. I think very highly of her.”
Receiving her master’s degree in business administration from the University of Phoenix, bachelor’s degree in communications with an emphasis in journalism from Cal State Bakersfield, and associate's degree from Reedley College, Harris is currently in pursuit of completing her doctorate in education from Brandman University.
Harris has been married to her husband Darnell for seven years, and has four children: Case (15), Chance (12), Dyson (6) and Pilar (2).
Watch full award presentation below!