A steadfast champion for Minority Business Enterprises and former Operator of the North Carolina MBDA Business Center

Family, Friends, Colleagues and Partners,

The North Carolina Institute of Minority Economic Development stands in mourning at the passing of our founder and leader, Ms. Andrea Lynette Harris, on the morning of May 20, 2020. 

Ms. Harris was an extraordinarily gifted, visionary leader. It was her vision and fortitude that birthed The NC Institute of Minority Economic Development in 1986. And for over two decades, she was at the helm of our organization, being a fierce leader and advocate for the marginalized and disenfranchised. She has left all of us a precious gift – the spirit and responsibility of continuing her work. Fortunately, The Institute remains an anchor in our community, dedicated to our mission – to strengthen the asset base of diverse populations through policy, education and opportunities. 

Ms. Harris was a counselor, friend, mother, sister and leader to many, well-beyond her birth family. We stand on her shoulders and will honor her legacy by tirelessly continuing her work, serving those who are marginalized and/or face unnecessary challenges and barriers limiting the ability of living their best life. She will truly be missed.

If you would like to pay tribute and leave a message, a special place has been set up to do so. Use the hashtag #LegacyOfMsAndreaHarris on all Institute social media channels to share your message. Those messages will be shared with her family, at a later date.

Be well.

Kevin J. Price, President
The Institute of Minority Economic Development