Biographical Text
Professor Emeritus of Human Development and Psychological Counseling James Edward ("Ed") Harrill (April 23, 1930-), was born in southern Rutherford County in North Carolina. After graduating from Cliffside High School, he attended Berea College, Berea, Kentucky, receiving his B.A. degree in English from the college. Then, after earning an M.A. degree in English from George Peabody College for Teachers, Harrill received a Ph.D. degree in education and psychology from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Dr. Harrill completed a postdoctoral internship in marital and family therapy at the Merrill-Palmer Institute, Detroit, Michigan, in 1967. Harrill taught in a one-room school in Rockcastle, Kentucky; served in Panama for the United States Army; and worked as a residence director of the Berea Foundation School, where he taught English and math before beginning his doctoral studies. In 1961, Harrill came to Appalachian State Teachers' College to revive a master's degree program in counseling and to establish an on-campus counseling service. In so doing, he planted the seeds for the current Department of Human Development and Psychological Counseling in the Reich College of Education and the Counseling and Psychological Services Center. While at Appalachian State, Harrill served on many committees, including the committee to establish a faculty senate. He was selected Outstanding Teacher of the Year in 1977 and Outstanding Mentor in the College of Education in 1992. Active in national, regional, and state professional organizations, Harrill served as president of North Carolina Personnel and Guidance Association (NCPGA) and edited the NCPGA journal. In addition to consulting for educational, civic, and religious groups, he held several administrative posts on campus. After being at Appalachian State for thirty-one years, Harrill was granted emeritus status on March 20, 1992. During retirement he enjoys travel, research, and grandparenting. He is married to Annabel Colvard Harrill, also retired, and they have five children. The Harrills live in Boone, and remain active in Friends of Watauga County Library, Habitat for Humanity, and other local organizations. Annabel, an Appalachian State University alumna, is most active as a board member of the National Committee for the New River. For the past several years, Harrill has been the Watauga delegate to the North Carolina Senior Tar Heel Legislature, and also serves on the local Project on Aging Committee. Sources: Appalachian State University files and long association. -Dr. Richard Howe
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