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Behind Purple Sheep
Meet Dr. Rashonda D. Harris | Founder & CEO
Dr. Rashonda D. Harris is the force behind Purple Sheep , which is dedicated to transforming research administration and fostering mentorship, leadership, and equity in higher education. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management and an MBA from Temple University, along with a Doctorate in Organizational Learning and Change from Baylor University. She is also a Certified Research Administrator (CRA) and holds certification in Human Resource Management.
As a published author, Dr. Harris explores the power of mentorship and leadership in her book, Purple Harvest: Planting Goals, Growing Truths. This transformative guide delves into the art of setting meaningful goals, overcoming obstacles, and harnessing the power of mentorship to achieve personal and professional success. Drawing from her own journey and expertise, Dr. Harris provides actionable insights for those striving to break barriers and create lasting impact. Whether you're an aspiring leader, a mentor, or someone seeking guidance, this book is a must-read.
📖 Get your copy today: Available on Amazon!
With 27 years in research administration and 22 years in leadership, Dr. Harris has advanced from entry-level to executive leadership. Her expertise spans research administration & compliance, higher education leadership, mentorship & training, and DEI advocacy. Recognized for her impact, she has earned prestigious awards, including the Julia Jacobsen Distinguished Service Award and multiple Best of Atlanta honors for Purple Sheep Consulting.
A featured speaker at industry panels, publications, and national conferences, Dr. Harris continues to shape the future of research administration through thought leadership and advocacy.
As Founder & CEO, Dr. Harris leads the Purple Sheep ecosystem—bridging strategy, mentorship, storytelling, and community impact through a people-first lens.
The Vision Behind the Purple Sheep Ecosystem
Purple Sheep was founded to build systems, leaders, and pathways that allow individuals and institutions to thrive—without sacrificing humanity, equity, or purpose. As a thought leader, she has shaped policies, developed training programs, and mentored emerging leaders, ensuring that professionals—especially those from historically marginalized backgrounds—have the tools and knowledge to succeed.
Rooted in Dialogue, Empathy, and Impact (DEI), Dr. Harris believes that meaningful change happens when voices are heard, experiences are valued, and actions drive progress. Through open dialogue and mentorship, she continues to create equitable opportunities and drive lasting impact in research administration and leadership.
The Purple Sheep Ecosystem
Purple Sheep is an integrated ecosystem designed to support leadership, strategy, and measurable impact—across institutions, individuals, and communities.
At its core, Purple Sheep integrates three intentionally connected elements:
Purple Sheep serves as the strategic and professional services hub, providing consulting, training, leadership development, and thought leadership.
We Are H.E.R.™ (Healed. Empowered. Resilient.) is the ethos that grounds our work—shaping how we design experiences, hold space, and define success for women navigating leadership, growth, and visibility.
Purple Sunshine Foundation™ is the philanthropic arm, extending our mission through community care, access, mentorship, and humanitarian initiatives.
Together, this ecosystem ensures that strategy is paired with care, leadership with humanity, and impact with purpose.
Areas of Impact
These areas represent how the Purple Sheep ecosystem shows up in practice—across strategy, education, mentorship, and leadership.
- Research Administration & Compliance
Built and led post-award, compliance, and grants operations stewarding significant portfolios with audit-ready controls, clear roles, and efficient workflows.
- Higher Education Leadership & Teaching
Adjunct and guest faculty member at Johns Hopkins University and Temple University, shaping the next generation of research administrators through practical curricula and real-world casework.
- Mentorship, Training & Credentials
Designer of dynamic programs, including the Black Women Who Mentor 14-week experience and certification-prep pathways aligned with RACC standards.
- Dialogue, Empathy & Impact (DEI) in Practice
Policy-aware, people-centered approaches that improve belonging, decision quality, and outcomes—without performative buzzwords.
Work With Dr. Harris
Engagements are delivered through Purple Sheep and aligned with the We Are H.E.R.™ ethos—combining strategic rigor with relational depth. Bring a solutions-driven, people-first lens to your next engagement.
Engagements include:
- Keynotes & Conference Talks
- Research Administration & Compliance Workshops
- Leadership & Mentorship Training
- Panels, Fireside Chats & Podcasts
Ready to collaborate?
Use the links below to book a consultation, request a speaking date, or download Dr. Harris’s professional one-sheet.
Quick Links
- Book Dr. Harris
- Watch the TEDx Talk (Coming Soon)
- Download One-Sheet
- Get the Purple Harvest Trilogy on Amazon
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