“I know firsthand how intimidating certain situations are when considering our challenges to pursue our dreams. I have learned to be more patient and kind to myself in understanding that some things are out of my control, but solutions are available, and I want people to feel empowered in using them.”

JaNae Harrison is a model of persistence in education. Because she cares for two children while also managing lupus, JaNae worried about the feasibility of fulfilling her dream and returning to school. Yet in 2020, she determinedly enrolled at Wayne County Community College and — despite the numerous challenges she juggled — remained an honors student throughout her time there. She ultimately graduated with an associate degree in liberal arts as a Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society member.

JaNae is now pursuing her bachelor’s degree in psychology at UM-Dearborn, where she has been recognized as a Spanish honors recipient for the 2022-23 academic year. JaNae is motivated to use her education to help individuals with chronic illnesses and their families. She reflects, “I know firsthand how intimidating certain situations are when considering our challenges to pursue our dreams. I have learned to be more patient and kind to myself in understanding that some things are out of my control, but solutions are available, and I want people to feel empowered in using them.” She ultimately hopes to obtain a terminal degree in the field and provide mental health support to people who suffer from invisible disabilities.

Beyond her studies and caregiving responsibilities, JaNae has served as a volunteer with numerous organizations in Detroit, including Wellspring Community Outreach, Co-op in the City, and Read-to-a-Child. Her colleagues and friends remark that it is “inspiring to watch the high level of commitment she has to her studies” and describe her as a “charismatic leader and community-builder.”

CEW+ applauds JaNae’s persistence and drive to help others and names her a Molly Hunter Dobson Scholar.