Ald. Harris attended high school at Chicago Vocational High School. She later received her bachelor's degree from Chicago State University. Harris followed a path to public service and government administration completing over 20 years in politics. She was Chief of Staff under Ald. Lorraine Dixon, 8th Ward Streets and Sanitation Superintendent and Secretary to the Cook County Board of Commissioners. She is active on groups such as the Foundation of Jackson Park Hospital and the Southeast Calumet Heights Homeowners Association. She was appointed to 8th Ward Alderman after Todd Stroger was elected to President of the Cook County Board.