“I am proud to be an example that people do recover, can change their lives, and help others do the same.”

Jennifer Harris is earning her master’s degree in social work on the program pathway of interpersonal practice in integrated health, mental health, and substance abuse. Jennifer’s motivation to become a clinical social worker comes in part from her own experience of recovery and maintaining sobriety. Not long after earning her undergraduate degree, Jennifer began working in the fine dining restaurant industry in New York City, Beverly Hills, and Detroit; while she rose through the ranks to become a captain, sommelier, and manager, her alcoholism and drug use also increased for the worse. In 2015, she entered inpatient treatment locally, and with remarkable strength and resilience, began to imagine a different life. Jennifer reflects, “I am proud to be an example that people do recover, can change their lives, and help others do the same.”

Jennifer intends to use her degree work in substance use treatment, where the need for professionals continues to increase. She firmly believes that making a positive difference by improving treatment outcomes for those struggling with addiction not only impacts individuals and their families but can have an effect on whole neighborhoods and communities. As a clinical professional, she hopes to advocate with greater effect against the stigma of addiction and be a resource for the recovery community. Jennifer is grateful to those who supported her, and she intends to pay it forward by mentoring aspiring social workers and providing clinical support pro bono to those in need.

Beyond her studies, Jennifer is an active volunteer with Alcoholics Anonymous, the Southern Michigan Rainbow Recovery Retreat, and Avalon Housing Carrot Way Food Pantry. She is recognized across her communities for her resilience, passion for helping others, and her effectiveness as an agent of change.

CEW+ commends Jennifer’s vision for her career as a social worker and names her a Susan Quackenbush Scholar.