Meet Jane Harrison

With me, you get an experienced economic and community development leader. You get an educator and environmental scientist.

I have a background in natural resource management, data-driven decision-making, and community organizing. I can navigate complex bureaucracies, and I rely on my scientific training to stay curious and open to different points of view. I work to build consensus and coalitions.

In my professional life, I work as the coastal economics specialist for North Carolina Sea Grant, a NOAA program based at NC State University. I have a Ph.D. in natural resource management and a master’s degree in environmental and development economics.

My career in environmental research and policy has taught me how to tackle wicked problems and find common ground. I collaborate statewide with city planners and elected officials, private businesses, and residents to safeguard natural resources and make smart, long-term investments in infrastructure.

I’m an environmentalist and a proponent of economic growth in the public’s interest. Raleigh should pursue community development in which all residents are at the decision-making table.

I re-established the West Raleigh CAC (Community Advocacy Council) to be in communication with my neighbors. Better decisions are made when we have ample conversation and residents shape our city as it grows.

I support small businesses. I lead development of the NC Oyster Trail, which promotes local, sustainable seafood options. I understand the risks entrepreneurs take to create jobs and will advocate for their needs.

You can count on me to advance common sense, progressive policies. In 2019, I completed a successful campaign to guarantee eight weeks of paid parental leave – benefiting mothers and fathers after the birth or adoption of a child – for 30,000 UNC employees.

I am married to jazz guitarist Doug Sours, who teaches at Guru Guitars in District D. We have a daughter Cadence and dog Willow. I commute to work by bicycle whenever possible – see you on the greenway!