Saturday, June 20, 2026
I was saddened to learn of the passing of Fred Harris.
I first met Fred in the early 2000s when I was a student leader at Conestoga College. Looking back, what stands out most is not the positions he held, but how he treated people.
As a student, I was young and still finding my voice. Fred always took the time to listen to my ideas and perspectives. He never dismissed someone because of their age or experience. He made people feel heard, valued, and respected.
Fred was a builder. He could see a vision for something better and then bring people together to make it happen. He cared deeply about students and wanted them to have the best possible college experience. His leadership helped drive major investments in student services and student life. He helped create the college's first Student Life Coordinator position and became Conestoga's first Vice President of Student Affairs.
What I appreciated most about Fred was his integrity. He did what he said he would do and said what he would do. You always knew where you stood with him. He earned the trust of students, staff, and colleagues because he was genuine, dependable, and committed to making things better.
I also remember how often he spoke about Diane and Tyler. It was always clear how proud he was of his family and how much they meant to him.
Fred was well liked by everyone who had the opportunity to know or work with him. He made a positive difference in the lives of countless students whether they knew it or not.
I am grateful our paths crossed. I am also glad he was able to enjoy many years of retirement, travelling and making memories with the people he loved.
To Diane, Tyler, and all of Fred's family and friends, thank you for sharing him with so many of us. His impact reached farther than he probably ever knew, and his legacy will live on through the people and institutions he helped shape.
Rest in peace, Fred.
