Sister Marie Joan Harris has been a Sister of St. Joseph of Carondelet since 1961 and a member of the Board of Trustees at Avila since 2017. She earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a minor in mathematics from Fontbonne College and a doctorate in chemistry from the University of Kansas, under the mentorship of Dr. Takeru Higuchi, an internationally recognized leader in analytical pharmaceutical chemistry. After receiving her doctorate from The University of Kansas, Sister Marie Joan taught chemistry at Avila University for 17 years during which she chaired the Department of Natural Science and Mathematics and frequently was recognized as Teacher of the Year. For 28 years she served at Avila as Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs. In that administrative position she led the identification of the Avila values, worked with faculty to create nationally recognized innovative programs and curriculum including the Avila Advantage program for working adults. She has received several national and local awards for her leadership in higher education. Sister Marie Joan brings extensive board experience through years of service a trustee on hospital, university, and secondary school boards and as a part-time member of the Province Council, the leadership group for the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Carondelet, St. Louis Province. Sister Marie Joan retired in 2015 and was awarded the title of Provost Emerita. She lives in Kansas City and continues to be involved in community non-profit organizations. She currently serves as a trustee at St. Catherine University in St. Paul, Minnesota and is a founding member of St. Joseph Educational Ministries, the Vatican-approved sponsor of Avila University. Serving since 2017.