BECOMING A MINORITY LEADER IN BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY
As Citizens Energy Group’s chief executive, Harrison became the first African American to head an Indianapolis-based utility company. He has succeeded at every juncture of his career, while being among the few minorities in leadership positions on his engineering or management teams.
“Hopefully, I am respected because of the work I have accomplished and my ability to work with people to get things done,” he says. “I have tried to set a positive example for others. I believe in strong customer service and being nice and welcoming to people. I have never forgotten my humble roots and am always looking to give back to others … As president and CEO (of Citizens Energy), I work hard every day to ensure our team is fulfilling the trust’s mission to serve customers and the community with unparalleled excellence and integrity.”
Harrison’s community volunteer endeavors include board memberships for the United Way of Central Indiana, the Indianapolis Zoo, Goodwill Education Initiatives Inc., YMCA, and the Indiana Energy Association. He is a graduate of the Stanley K. Lacy Executive Leadership Program, the Hoosier Fellows Program and the Diversity Leadership Academy of Greater Indianapolis. He is a member of the executive committee overseeing the organization of events for when Indianapolis hosts the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship Game.
And, Harrison encourages future engineers through support for Indianapolis’ Center for Leadership Development, mentoring minority youths toward careers in engineering and high-tech careers, and as a member of the executive committee for the Central Indiana Corporate Partnership, a group of civic leaders striving to advance the region’s prosperity and growth.
“Engineering has afforded me so many opportunities and I encourage as many youths as possible to consider engineering as a career. If I can make it, they can too,” he states.