A person in scrubs with a stethoscope around their neck sits at a desk with a laptop and glasses.

Inside Bryan University’s Medical Assisting Program with Director Dr. Jacquelyn Harris 

Dr. Jacquelyn Harris

Dr. Jacquelyn Harris has always had a passion for helping people grow, so when she came across an opening at Bryan University to help build a brand-new Medical Assisting Program, it just made sense. That was four and a half years ago, and she hasn’t looked back since. 

As Clinical Healthcare Program Director, Jacquelyn runs the day-to-day operations of BU’s Medical Assisting programs — a Clinical Medical Assistant Certificate and the Associate Degree in Administrative Medical Assisting. She works closely with students, faculty, and staff to make sure everything runs smoothly. At the heart of her approach is a simple belief that the right faculty makes all the difference. Finding, training, and developing great instructors is something she takes seriously because she knows they have the biggest direct impact on students. 

Her team shares something special. Every single one of them started their career as a medical assistant, just like the students they teach. 

“Because of our shared background, we can easily relate to our students and understand their experiences,” Dr. Harris said.  

That common ground makes for a tight-knit group with a genuine investment in student success. 

Nothing fuels Dr. Harris more than watching that success happen. Helping students reach their potential and earn something they’re proud of; that’s what it’s all about for her. Her goal is to keep building on what she’s already created while staying current in the field, so her graduates walk away truly ready for the workforce. 

It hasn’t always been easy. When her program grew quickly, she leaned on her planning skills and intentionally built a team she knew could handle the pace. Her long-term vision of developing a program from start to finish kept her focused and prepared every step of the way. 

Professionally, Dr. Harris counts earning her doctorate and launching the AAMA program at BU among her greatest accomplishments. She’s also grown a lot through the relationships she’s built with fellow Program Directors and leadership. 

“Observing how they communicate, solve problems, and work through different ideas has helped me become more confident and effective in my role,” she said.  

Her advice to anyone just starting out? Ask questions, learn from everyone around you, and stay adaptable. And the best piece of advice she’s ever received? ” Sit back and relax, let it all soak in before you respond or react ”  

Outside of work, Dr. Harris has a strong passion for horses. She’s into trail riding, horse shows, and rodeos, and she’s a passionate advocate for the wild horse and burro program. In fact, she adopted two wild burros through the Bureau of Land Management, Pepper and Gus, who are now living their best lives at home with her. Next on her personal bucket list: learning to play the banjo. 

When asked what she would say to someone considering a career at BU, she said, “I would tell them that working at BU has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. It’s a place where you can grow, learn, and truly make a difference in students’ lives. I feel fortunate to be here, and it’s the best job I’ve ever had.”  

Each month, we shine a light on one of our amazing team members through the Bryan University Employee Spotlight. Every employee is eligible. Want to join our team? Explore Careers at Bryan University

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