Joshua Harris
About Joshua Harris
Joshua Harris serves as the Director of Community Engagement & Government Affairs at the Obama Foundation, where he focuses on fostering relationships and strategic initiatives. He has extensive experience in political engagement and advocacy, having previously held significant roles in various organizations, including AARP and the Democratic National Committee.
Current Role at Obama Foundation
Joshua Harris serves as the Director of Community Engagement & Government Affairs at the Obama Foundation. He has held this position since 2022 and is based in Chicago, Illinois. In this role, he focuses on fostering community relationships and managing government affairs to support the foundation's mission.
Education and Academic Background
Joshua Harris studied Political Science at the University of New Orleans, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from 2000 to 2008. He also attended Lamar High School, achieving a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from 2000 to 2004. His educational background provides a foundation for his work in community engagement and government affairs.
Professional Experience at AARP
Harris worked at AARP in various capacities from 2016 to 2022. He served as the Associate State Director for Advocacy & Outreach in Chicago, Illinois, from 2019 to 2022. Prior to that, he was the Director of Data and Reporting for the AARP Take a Stand Campaign in the Washington D.C. Metro Area for six months in 2016. His roles involved strategic advocacy and outreach efforts.
Political Engagement and Strategy Roles
Joshua Harris has held several significant positions in political engagement. He was the Midwest Political Director at the Democratic National Committee from 2013 to 2014, where he directed political engagement across 12 states. Additionally, he served as the Northeast Regional Field Director for the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee in 2014, overseeing campaign strategy for 14 targeted congressional races.
Government Service Experience
Harris has experience in government service, having worked as a Clerk at the United States Attorney's Office in the U.S. Department of Justice from 2008 to 2009 in the Greater New Orleans Area. This role contributed to his understanding of governmental processes and legal frameworks.