Harvest Christian University Officers

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Harvest Christian University is delighted to announce the executive appointment of Dr. Kannis Florence as Chief Operations Officer (COO), a decision made by the President, who has enjoyed a longstanding friendship and professional relationship with Dr. Florence. In this vital leadership capacity, Dr. Florence assumes responsibility for the comprehensive management of university operations, ensuring that all administrative, academic, and support functions align with the institution’s strategic vision and objectives.

As COO, Dr. Florence will direct the university’s operational activities, overseeing financial management, human resources, facilities, and technology infrastructure. He will serve as a key member of the senior leadership team, collaborating closely with the President and executive officers to drive institutional performance, resource efficiency, and service quality across all departments4. His mandate extends to fostering a positive organizational culture, guiding staff, officers, regents, students, and adjunct professors, and ensuring cohesive and effective professional services that support academic excellence and student success.

Dr. Florence’s role includes developing and implementing strategies that enhance the university’s fiscal resilience, managing risk, and supporting the university’s growth and sustainability. He will also play a prominent role in external relations, building partnerships and representing the university in civic and corporate engagements to further its mission and reputation. Harvest Christian University is confident that Dr. Kannis Florence’s visionary leadership, managerial acumen, and dedication to collaboration will be instrumental in advancing the university’s goals and upholding its commitment to excellence. 

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Dr. Priscilla Echi is an accomplished entrepreneur, award-winning journalist, activist, and community organizer with a distinguished record of leadership across multiple sectors. She brings to Harvest Christian University a wealth of experience in executive and political consulting, as well as a proven ability to craft and execute high-impact community initiatives. Dr. Echi is recognized for her creative vision, her commitment to social justice, and her dedication to fostering meaningful change within communities.

 Dr. Echi’s extensive experience as an entrepreneur, award-winning journalist, and community organizer, combined with her passion for social justice and her proven ability to lead transformational initiatives, make her uniquely qualified for this executive role2. She is recognized for her ability to connect diverse groups, amplify underrepresented voices, and create opportunities for meaningful impact. 

As Executive Vice-President of Community Affairs, Dr. Echi will lead Harvest Christian University’s efforts to strengthen ties with local and global communities, foster inclusive engagement, and develop innovative programs that advance the university’s mission. Her leadership will ensure that the university remains a vital partner in building vibrant, resilient communities.

Dr. Echi is recognized for her creative vision, her commitment to social justice, and her dedication to fostering meaningful change within communities.

With a distinguished record of achievements in higher education and media, the Executive Vice President brings a legacy of leadership that includes developing and implementing comprehensive media strategies, enhancing institutional reputation through innovative storytelling and community engagement, and forging strategic alliances with media outlets, influencers, and industry leaders. 

Dr. Paul Salfen, as Director of Media Affairs, brings decades of experience as a TV host, producer, author, and consultant. His extensive media portfolio and international reach make him an invaluable partner in advancing Harvest Christian University’s visibility and influence.

Together, the Executive Vice President of Media Affairs and Dr. Paul Salfen are united in their vision to ensure that Harvest Christian University’s narrative is consistently communicated with integrity and inspiration, reflecting the institution’s core values and its commitment to shaping the next generation of leaders.

Harvest Christian University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Dayna Davis as Executive Vice-President of Organizational Development. She  brings a wealth of experience and a demonstrated commitment to advancing organizational excellence and institutional transformation.

With a distinguished academic background and extensive leadership experience in higher education, Dr. Davis has proven her ability to drive strategic growth, foster collaborative cultures, and champion innovation across complex organizations. Her expertise in organizational development, change management, and talent development will be instrumental in guiding the university’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its structure, culture, and performance.

 As Executive Vice-President of Organizational Development Dr. Davis will play a pivotal role in shaping the university’s future, ensuring alignment between its strategic objectives and operational realities.

Dr. Larosa brings a distinguished background in legal practice and a deep commitment to justice, education, and community service. With a robust legal career spanning over three decades, Dr. Larosa has represented individuals and organizations in a wide range of legal matters, including personal injury, medical malpractice, family law, and civil litigation.

 His expertise has led to numerous successful outcomes for clients, including multimillion-dollar settlements and verdicts, reflecting his dedication to legal excellence and client advocacy.

Dr. Larosa’s leadership is further distinguished by his academic credentials, holding both a law degree and a doctorate, underscoring his dedication to lifelong learning and the integration of faith and justice. His professional philosophy centers on understanding and responding to client needs with integrity, professionalism, and unwavering commitment—qualities that align seamlessly with Harvest Christian University’s mission.

Harvest Christian University is delighted to announce  that Jennifer Reed has joined our leadership team as Executive Vice  President of Strategic Partnerships. In this important new role,  Jennifer will work closely with Drew Pearson Hail Mary and Dr. Paul  Salfen to propel the university’s mission forward and help achieve our  most ambitious strategic goals.

We are confident that Jennifer’s expertise, enthusiasm,  and innovative mindset will be instrumental in strengthening and  expanding the university’s strategic partnerships, and we look forward  to all that we will accomplish together.

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Dr. Reed brings to Harvest Christian University  more than fifteen years of distinguished experience in strategic systems  and program development, particularly in the fields of education and  mental health. Throughout her remarkable career, Jennifer has  demonstrated a visionary approach to building innovative programs and  fostering meaningful collaborations that deliver measurable results. As  Director of Strategic Education Initiatives at the Meadows Mental Health  Policy Institute. 

Jennifer’s leadership also transformed comprehensive  school mental health services as Director of Clinical Services for the  Dallas Independent School District, where she guided one of the largest  programs of its kind in the nation.

Renowned for her strengths in relationship-building,  distributive leadership, and data-driven decision making, Jennifer  brings a collaborative and results-oriented approach to every challenge.  

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Jennifer  Reed as she steps into this pivotal leadership role at Harvest Christian  University.

.Welcome and Congratulations to Bishop Dr. Jaron L. Barnes, Chief Deputy Director of Veteran Affairs

Harvest Christian University is both honored and  delighted to extend our warmest congratulations to our esteemed friend  and proud alumnus;

We are confident that Bishop Dr. Barnes will draw on his  diverse experiences and profound understanding of veterans’ challenges  to shape thoughtful policies, foster meaningful collaborations, and  advocate for resources that will enrich lives. His leadership will not  only benefit the veteran community but also strengthen the bond between  Harvest Christian University and those who have served our nation.

Bishop Dr. Barnes’s multifaceted career is a renowned  testament to his unwavering dedication and ability to lead with  integrity and compassion. Beginning with his service at the New Orleans  Sheriff’s Department, Dr. Barnes demonstrated courage and a profound  sense of duty to protect and serve his community. 

In addition to his public safety work, Dr. Barnes  displayed entrepreneurial vigor by founding and managing a reputable  cleaning company.

Dr. Barnes’s deep-rooted faith and spiritual leadership  as a Bishop in the Catholic Church and a licensed, commissioned chaplain  uniquely position him as a compassionate advocate for veterans and  their families. His pastoral care speaks not only to spiritual guidance  but also to holistic support, addressing the emotional, psychological,  and social challenges many veterans face. Known for his ability to  provide hope and healing.

As Chief Deputy Director of Veteran Affairs, Dr. Barnes  brings invaluable insight into the complex realities of veterans’ lives.  He intimately understands their sacrifices, the obstacles they  encounter—including those related to education, healthcare, employment,  and community reintegration—and the strengths they possess. 

Harvest Christian University takes immense pride in  claiming Bishop Dr. Jaron L. Barnes as one of our own. His journey from HCU’s classrooms to this important  leadership position serves as a powerful inspiration to our students,  faculty, and community members alike.

It is an honor to introduce Dr. Jake Tayler Jacobs as the new Dean of the Business School at Harvest Christian University. He brings a wealth of experience as a distinguished entrepreneur, educator, and thought leader in the business community. As the founder and CEO of Bisco Capital, he has empowered countless professionals to maximize their skills and achieve new heights in their careers.

 Dr. Jake Tayler Jacobs serves as the Dean of the David D. Carroll School of Business at Harvest Christian University. With a distinguished background as a former teacher and a graduate of Wiley College, he brings a wealth of experience from his leadership roles in both the hospital and banking sectors. 

Dr. Jacobs has made a significant impact in both the hospital and banking sectors. In healthcare, he serves as President and COO of SIPS Healthcare Solutions, where he is recognized for transforming hospital operations, especially in sterile processing and workforce development. His leadership has helped hospitals become more efficient and effective, directly improving patient care and operational outcomes. 

He  is  also known for tackling critical industry challenges such as staffing, leadership alignment, and sustainable growth, and has consulted on major hospital system turnarounds, sharing his expertise through his podcast and public speaking engagements.

  We are honored to announce and congratulate Dr. Tommie Harris Jr. on his appointment as the new Executive Director of Athlete Education and Career Development at Harvest Christian University. 

 Dr. Harris will also manage university partnerships and ambassadorships, forging collaborations with industry leaders, alumni, and organizations in banking, finance, and beyond to expand career pathways for athletes.

Dr. Harris brings an extraordinary legacy to this position. As a former NFL All-Pro and Hall of Fame-caliber athlete, he is widely recognized for his leadership, resilience, and excellence throughout his storied football career. Off the field, Dr. Harris has continued to inspire as a respected business executive, accomplished author, dedicated humanitarian, and philanthropic leader. 

He has served on various boards and led community initiatives that focus on youth development, education, and workforce advancement, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to empowering individuals and communities

Vision

Under Dr. Johnson’s leadership, the Music, Arts, and Worship Ministries will continue to thrive as a beacon of creativity, faith, and service. His vision is to empower students to use their artistic gifts in service to God and others, equipping them to make a lasting impact in both the church and the world.

The University hopes to build bridges between the university and the wider community through outreach, collaborative projects, and public performances.

  We are delighted to announce the appointment of Dr. Tim Johnson as the Executive Director of Music, Arts, and Worship Ministries at Harvest Christian University. In this pivotal role, Dr. Johnson will provide visionary leadership for the university’s integrated approach to music, arts, and worship, ensuring that these disciplines remain central to the institution’s mission and community life.

Experience

Dr. Tim Johnson brings a wealth of experience to Harvest Christian University. As a distinguished graduate of HCU’s own doctoral programs, Dr. Johnson is deeply familiar with the university’s values and commitment to excellence. His professional background includes extensive work as a worship pastor, musician, and educator, with a proven record of inspiring creativity and spiritual growth in diverse settings. 

Commitments

As Executive Director, Dr. Johnson is committed to:

 Elevating the standards of music, arts, and worship at Harvest Christian University through innovative programming, rigorous training, and meaningful performance opportunities.

He believes in investing in the next generation of artists and worship leaders by providing mentorship, resources, and platforms for growth and expression.