For 90 years, Northwestern State University of Louisiana has chosen 31 students each year to recognize as members of the Purple Jacket Honor Society, an elite women’s organization that serves as the official hostess group for the university. 2014 BHS graduate Maggie Harris was among those who received the honor this year, adding to her impressive college experience at Northwestern State University.

 

While at BHS, Harris immersed herself in all things involving service and leadership.  As president of BHS DECA, she received the National Emerging Leader Award as well as placing first in competition.  She was also an active member of Key Club, Student Council and NHS.  Before arriving here, she had already earned national honors in FBLA and was well on her way to making her mark on the world. 

 

Harris decided to attend Northwestern State University and continued using her talents, abilities and enthusiasm to impress the town of Natchitoches.  After an internship with the Chamber of Commerce, they created a permanent position for her as Director of Membership Experience by the time she was just a sophomore in college. 

 

After seeing that the school’s literary magazine was in need of an editor, Harris immediately applied and, again, a position was created for her due to her infectious personality and skill set.  She became the Associate Editor but quickly moved up the ladder to Editor-in-Chief and once again received national recognition for her efforts.  Through her work with the magazine, she spearheaded a campaign celebrating their 40^th Anniversary and increased the number of submissions significantly. 

 

While still attending college, Harris served on the School of Business Student Advisory Board and as an officer for Phi Bet Lambda.  She is a member of the honor society and teaches Sunday school at her church.

 

The Purple Jacket Honor Society is the oldest club at Northwestern State University.  Members are chosen based on academics and leadership credentials and they are charged with hosting NSU activities as well as promoting scholarship and service to others. They are the official hostesses of the campus and take part in ceremonies such as graduation.  Students must have a high GPA, prove to have upstanding character, demonstrate leadership experience and have upperclassmen status. Potential members undergo an application and interview process in order to be considered.