RT-D’s Harris to VCU

Michael J. “Mike” Harris, a long-time reporter and editor at the Richmond Times-Dispatch, has joined the athletic staff at Virginia Commonwealth University. Harris, 51, will serve as an assistant athletic director for communications. He will also work as an instructor in the VCU SportsCenter. A graduate of VCU (Mass Communications, 1978), Harris was most recently sports […]

January 25, 2008; 9:44 PM • by FTRea

A graduate of VCU (Mass Communications, 1978), Harris was most recently sports editor of The Times-Dispatch. During his years as a reporter, he covered VCU, the University of Richmond, Virginia Tech and a wide variety of other beats. He covered two Olympic Games for the newspaper — in Atlanta in 1996 and Sydney in 2000. Harris’ work won numerous Virginia Press Association awards.

Harris started at VCU on Jan. 21.

“Starting a new career at VCU is energizing,” Harris said. “I love The Times-Dispatch and the people there. The newspaper gave me the opportunity to do many wonderful things and I will always be appreciative.

“I’ve kept a proud eye on my alma mater for a long time and I’ve been impressed by the growth, both by the university as a whole and in the athletic department. The opportunity to join the staff here and be part of the continued growth is too good to pass up.”

Conversations with VCU President Dr. Eugene P. Trani, former Director of Athletics Dr. Richard L. Sander and current Director of Athletics Norwood T. Teague confirmed Harris’ view of the university’s progress.

“Dr. Trani and Dr. Sander have such great vision,” Harris said. “More important, they are people who get things done. Lots of people talk. They do. Every indication I have is that Mr. Teague is cut from the same cloth. I’m honored that people like them think I can make contributions here.”

“The hiring of Mike Harris is a great addition to VCU athletics,” said Teague, “he brings a wealth of experience in communications and we are all thrilled he will be joining us.”

Harris’ wife of 29 years, Karen Sue Harris, is also a graduate of VCU. She is a Title I reading specialist for Prince George County schools and teaches as an adjunct faculty member in VCU’s School of Education . The couple has two children. David, 24, is a graduate of Virginia Tech and a doctoral candidate in psychology there. Courtney, 21, is a year away from a Virginia Tech degree in Spanish and international relations.

– This notice was provided by Scott Day,
VCU Assistant Director of Athletic Communications

Ed Note: VCU’s gain, as Harris is well-liked for good reason in the sports world. Yet another loss for the Richmond Times-Dispatch.