Theresa M. Harrison says she finds fulfillment in seeing people’s dreams come true. Director of supplier diversity at Ernst & Young L.L.P., a global professional services firm specializing in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services, she is involved in developing and providing opportunities for diverse businessowners, a role that often puts her in a position to make dreams come true. “Connecting individuals to opportunities to grow their business is inspiring and having a hand in helping them build a legacy is a powerful experience,” Harrison states.

Beyond Ernst & Young, Harrison indulges her delight in helping others through volunteer work with such entities as the Selective Corporate Internship Program, a mentorship program that exposes talented juniors at public high schools in the New York-New Jersey metro area to career opportunities in the corporate sector. The program preps students for the college application process and gives them valuable insight into the transition from college to the professional work force.

Harrison says her faith keeps her grounded, and even fearless, in her pursuit of success. Fear, she declares, is only “false evidence appearing real.” She credits Mike Jones, president of Discover U Leadership Training Program, with helping her to push past obstacles, in turn enabling her to grow personally and professionally. Harrison believes that change is inevitable but growth is optional. “We all have the opportunity to grow from change, but growth is up to you individually. You have to choose to grow!” she says.

Harrison serves on the board of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council and the New York/New Jersey Supplier Development Council. As co-chair of the Soul Committee of Ernst & Young’s Professional Women’s Network, Harrison is involved with the Dress for Success Drive, PJ/Book Drive, Junior Achievement and the Breast Cancer Walk. She received a master’s degree in business management from Bentley College and a bachelor’s in the same subject from Emmanuel College.