Citizens Energy Group President & CEO Jeffrey Harrison received an honorary doctorate from Vincennes University (VU) on Saturday, April 30, at the institution’s 216th commencement ceremony.
Harrison was recognized with the university’s highest honor for his steadfast commitment to community and his pivotal and influential leadership within the utility industry. He spent 13 years at Indianapolis Power & Light before joining Citizens Energy Group and became the first African American to lead an Indianapolis-based utility company.
Harrison spoke to graduates of the College of Business and Public Service; College of Science, Engineering, and Mathematics; and College of Technology, encouraging them to have confidence in their skills, courage in their convictions, and an open mind.
He attended VU before transferring to Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and earning a bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering. He also earned an MBA from Indiana University.
“I am humbled and honored to receive an honorary doctorate from the institution that provided such a strong foundation for my postsecondary studies,” Harrison said. “I have personally witnessed the University’s dedication to education and student achievement.”
Harrison’s community engagement work includes serving as the chair of Business Equity for Indy and on the boards of directors for 16 Tech Community Corporation, 500 Festival, American Gas Association, Center for Leadership Development, Central Indiana Corporate Partnership, FBI Indianapolis Citizens Academy Alumni Association, Goodwill Operating Board, Greater Indianapolis Progress Committee, Indiana Chamber of Commerce, Indiana Energy Association, Indiana Sports Corporation, Indianapolis Public Safety Foundation, Indianapolis Urban League, Indianapolis Zoo, Indy Chamber, IUPUI Board of Advisors, Marian University, Richard M. Fairbanks Foundation, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, The Nature Conservancy, United Way of Central Indiana, and YMCA.
John Stachura, Chair of the Vincennes University Board of Trustees, congratulates Jeffrey Harrison on receiving an honorary doctorate.
