Miles College Congratulates Director Valerie R. Harris on Award Recognition

Miles College proudly congratulates Director Valerie R. Harris on earning this well-deserved award, which recognizes her outstanding leadership, artistic excellence, and transformative contributions to choral music and arts education. Since joining Miles College in 2016, Director Harris has elevated the Miles College Choir to national prominence while creating historic opportunities for students that extend far beyond the classroom. 

Under Director Harris’s leadership, the Miles College Choir has achieved numerous firsts for the institution, including inaugural performances at major state and national conferences such as the Alabama Music Educators Association Professional Development Conference and the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) Collegiate Choral Festival. The choir has been repeatedly invited to return to these prestigious stages, affirming its reputation for excellence and professionalism 

Director Harris has also led the choir in performances of historic and cultural significance. These include participation in Alabama’s Bicentennial Celebration, the inauguration of Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin, World Games 2022 events, Selma’s Jubilee and Foot Soldiers commemorations, and national conventions and festivals across the country. Notably, under her direction, Miles College students performed at Carnegie Hall, an extraordinary milestone that reflects both artistic distinction and institutional pride. 

Her work has garnered national recognition beyond the concert stage. Director Harris received a Telly Award for Creative Excellence for her choral contributions to the Dreams of Hope documentary, which featured the Miles College Choir and aired nationally on PBS. She has also served as Choral Director for renowned artists and organizations, including the Blind Boys of Alabama, Donald Lawrence, Tramaine Hawkins, and the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, further solidifying her standing as a respected leader in the field. 

In addition to performance excellence, Director Harris is deeply committed to education, mentorship, and service. She is a frequent guest clinician and conductor for honor choirs, music festivals, and professional conferences across Alabama and the region. She has served as an adjudicator for numerous choral assessments and talent showcases, contributing her expertise to the development of young musicians statewide. 

Director Harris’s impact reflects the broader mission and momentum of Miles College, to cultivate excellence, honor tradition, and prepare students to lead with confidence and purpose. This award stands as a testament not only to her individual accomplishments, but also to the enduring strength of the Miles College music program under her visionary leadership.

Miles College celebrates Director Valerie R. Harris for her continued dedication, trailblazing achievements, and unwavering commitment to student success. Her work brings honor to the institution and inspires the next generation of artists, educators, and cultural leaders.