Middlesex Community College is excited to announce Tyreke Harris as the new Coordinator of Athletics. Most recently the Athletic Coordinator at Manchester Community College, Harris understands the importance of maintaining students’ wellness through sports and recreation programming. In his role at Middlesex, he looks forward to continuing this work to serve students at the community college level.
“Colleges who offer sports and recreation programs greatly enhance the mental, emotional and physical health of their students,” Harris said. “These initiatives promote social connections, personal development, and a healthy lifestyle – all of which contribute to a more well-rounded and satisfying college experience. Promoting student involvement in these kinds of activities is crucial to creating well-rounded people who are not just successful academically but also emotionally stable, resilient and healthy.”
After graduating with a bachelor’s in Sport and Movement Science with a concentration in Sport Management from Salem State University, Harris continued his education at Northeastern University to earn a master’s in Sports Leadership. He is currently working toward a doctorate in Higher Education at Northeastern, focusing on providing mentorship and opportunities for students of all backgrounds.
During his time as a student, Harris enjoyed connecting with faculty and staff who had similar experiences to him. Their influences helped him feel more comfortable while at college. Based on his experiences, Harris emphasizes the importance of students being able to ask for help, being active members of the campus community, and advocating for their academic, professional and personal success.
“This connection generates a trusting environment in which students are more inclined to seek assistance, participate in academic and extracurricular activities, and achieve personal and academic success,” Harris said. “These interactions help students gain confidence, create a stronger sense of self, and handle the challenges of maturity and higher education.”
As a former student athlete, Harris believes involvement in sports and recreation builds cooperation, leadership, time management and resilience. At Manchester Community College, he built the athletic program from scratch, launching a men’s basketball team, women’s volleyball team, and an esports team within nine months. He also worked to establish a competitive club levels sports program for teams to compete with other colleges.
Harris chose to come to MCC to continue working in higher education and the community college environment. In addition to extracurricular activities, he appreciates the college offering strong student support services and creative instructional strategies for all students to help guide them to success.
“It is truly a rewarding experience to see students grow,” Harris said. “I sincerely value the chance to contribute to an atmosphere that fosters career growth and lifetime learning, as community colleges are essential in empowering individuals.”
In his new role, he plans to increase intramural and club sports, start esports and dance clubs, and enhance MCC’s on-campus offerings with a fitness center and walking trail in the next few semesters. To get to know the community, Harris will host a step challenge for students, as well as a meet and greet opportunity.
“Not only am I here to oversee the athletics program, but I am here to be a shoulder to lean on and a resource for whatever is needed throughout students’ college journey,” he said. “I want to establish long-lasting connections with the students and do everything in my power to support their success.”