He subsequently served as a captain in the United States Air Force before earning his doctorate from the University of California, Davis.

[2] During Harrison's tenure, the university has undertaken a vigorous and comprehensive building campaign in an attempt to modify the archaic and outdated structures, most of which were built in the 1960s.

Harrison taught one English course per year at Hartford, where, in addition to being the university's president, he held the rank of resident professor.

[7] In 2013 the Anti-Defamation League honored harrison with the Torch of Liberty Award, which celebrates people who carry on a tradion of community service.

[8] In 2015 Harrison was named to the Knight Commission on Intercollegiate Athletics, which works to promote a reform agenda that emphasizes the educational mission of college sports.