Jim Harris and Betty Sharp of University Advancement to Retire

University Relations

Jim Harris and Betty Sharp

Jim Harris and Betty Sharp retire from the University of Arkansas effective June 30 and July 29, respectively.

Jim Harris

Harris has retired after 22 years of service at the U of A. He began his career with the university after working in private practice as partner in the Rose Law Firm from 1987-1997, and with Hall, Estill, Hardwick, Gable, Golden and Nelson from 1997-2000. He was the associate director of planned giving and then director and counsel of the Office of Planned Giving. Most recently, Harris served as associate vice chancellor for University Advancement.

Under Harris' leadership, the planned giving team successfully completed two capital campaigns raising over $415 million total for students, faculty and programs at the university.

"During the last 20 years of working together, I have witnessed Jim's passion for the university and the meaningful relationships he has nurtured with so many benefactors," said Mark Power, vice chancellor for advancement. "He leaves an incredible legacy, and his leadership in planned giving has left an indelible impact on our campus and the philanthropic community."

Harris is a first-generation college graduate. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the Sam M. Walton College of Business and a Juris Doctor of Law from the university's School of Law. He also holds a Master of Arts in Tax Law from the University of Florida.

Harris and his wife, Jana, created the Jim and Jana Harris Advance Arkansas Scholarship that supports first-generation college students from Carroll County. They are life members of the Arkansas Alumni Association and members of the Towers of Old Main giving society.

Betty Sharp

After 45 years of service, Sharp is retiring from her position as complex gift specialist in University Advancement.
In this role, Sharp worked closely with gift services, directors of development and the U of A Foundation. She managed legal and probate matters; major, complex and planned gifts; and administered the university's gift annuity program. She also assisted with real estate transfers, oil and gas gifts and probate administration services.

She began her dedicated university career as a staff member in 1977 in what was then the Department of Home Economics in the College of Agriculture and Home Economics and was promoted through a series of administrative positions before serving as executive assistant to the vice president for agriculture. In 1991, she joined the Office of University Development before finding her ultimate home in the Office of Planned Giving in 1993. Her roles steadily rose in responsibility from administrative assistant to development/advancement specialist, assistant director and associate director before assuming the title of complex gift specialist.

"Betty is an incredible colleague and has contributed to many accomplishments at the university during the last 45 years," said vice chancellor for advancement, Mark Power. "Her dedication and expert knowledge in major and complex gifts have been integral to the success of planned giving."

Sharp is a life-long learner and has earned three degrees from the U of A, including an Associate of Arts from what is now the Sam M. Walton College of Business, a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master of Education from the College of Education and Health Professions.

A retirement reception for Harris and Sharp will be held from 4-5:30 p.m., Thursday, July 21, at the Fowler House Garden and Conservatory.

About the University of Arkansas: The University of Arkansas provides an internationally competitive education for undergraduate and graduate students in more than 200 academic programs. The university contributes new knowledge, economic development, basic and applied research, and creative activity while also providing service to academic and professional disciplines. The Carnegie Foundation classifies the University of Arkansas among the few colleges and universities in America that have the highest level of research activity. U.S. News & World Report ranks the U of A among its top American public research universities. Founded in 1871, the University of Arkansas comprises 10 colleges and schools and maintains a low student-to-faculty ratio that promotes personal attention and close mentoring.