What does it mean to rise to your purpose? What does it mean to step into your legacy? For Makenzi Harris, the answer is simple — it looks like love and service.

When Harris transferred to Florida A&M University in the fall of 2023, she wasn’t walking into unfamiliar territory. Instead, she was returning to her roots.

Harris is the daughter of Tammi Harris, a graduate of FAMU’s Doctor of Pharmacy program, and Gregory Harris, who earned his Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. Her aunt is long-time university administrator Patricia Green-Powell, Ph.D., and her paternal twin brother, Gamaliel Harris, is a fellow FAMU student leader. It’s clear that for Harris, transferring to FAMU was not just a continuation of a family tradition — it was a bold step into a legacy of unwavering Rattler pride and  achievement.

“FAMU is in my blood,” she said. “Both of my parents are Rattlers, my older brother is currently a student, and my aunt is a proud alumna. It just made sense.”

Originally from Fort Walton Beach, Florida, Harris had already completed two associate degrees and was a member of multiple honors societies, including Phi Theta Kappa and Tau Sigma. She arrived on the Hill with a fierce drive to make her mark — but she also knew the transition could be overwhelming. That’s where the Rattler RISE program stepped in. Short for “Rattler Retention through Intensive Support and Engagement,” Rattler RISE is designed to help transfer students, student-athletes and others adjust and succeed at FAMU. The program connects students with peer mentors, faculty advisors and tailored resources that support academic excellence and personal growth.

“RISE was the launchpad I needed,” Harris said. “It didn’t just help me navigate the campus; it helped me build community. The staff made me feel seen, and I knew I wasn’t alone in this journey.”

Her support extended beyond the classroom. Harris credits the FAMU Career and Professional Development Center with helping her sharpen her résumé, prepare for interviews and land competitive opportunities. One of the most influential figures in that process was Mia Zegler, assistant director for career advising and planning.

“Ms. Zegler really poured into me,” Harris said. “She helped refine my résumé and reminded me that my path was powerful.”

Graduating with a degree in philosophy and religion and a pre-law minor, Harris has fully immersed herself in campus life. She served as the NCNW Miss Purple and Black 2024–2025. She is also a member of the Black Female Future Attorneys (BFFA), NAACP, National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice (NABCJ), National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), and the J.W. Hatchett Pre-Law Society.

“With this title and this crown, I carry responsibility — not just for myself but for every young Black girl who needs to see that she is enough, that she is powerful, and that her dreams are valid,” she said.

Balancing academics, leadership roles and service work hasn’t always been easy, but Harris emphasizes that staying organized has been her saving grace.

“Writing things down and staying on top of deadlines has saved me countless times,” she said. “The pressure can be intense, but if you prioritize your time and keep track of your tasks, it becomes manageable. Time management is everything.”

Harris has made volunteerism a cornerstone of her FAMU experience, logging more than 140 community service hours primarily at Second Harvest of the Big Bend, a food bank that provides healthy food for neighbors facing hunger and food insecurity throughout the 16-county Big Bend service area She also maintains a 4.0 GPA, was selected as Transfer Student of the Year and was recently honored with a Legacy Award from Rattler RISE.

“I want students to know it’s not about how you start — it’s about how you rise,” Harris said. “Especially for transfer students or those who take a nontraditional path — it’s still valid, still powerful and still full of purpose.”

Harris’ achievements extend beyond the Hill. She has been accepted into several prestigious law schools, including the University of Southern California with a merit-based scholarship. After graduation, she is set to begin an internship with Dwyer & Knight Law Firm, where she’ll gain hands-on legal experience and further her goal of becoming a lead contract specialist for the U.S. government, and ultimately, a contract attorney.

For Harris, transferring to FAMU wasn’t just a turning point — it was a homecoming and proof that when one honors their legacy the crown doesn’t just fit — it shines.

Media Contact: 

Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu 

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