Venessa Harrison will leave a lasting legacy upon her retirement on January 31, 2025, after 45 years of dedicated service to the company. During her tenure, she held the position of President of AT&T Southeast Coastal States. The company has not yet announced a successor to assume her role.
Harrison joined AT&T as a telephone operator in an entry-level position and steadily climbed through the ranks to leadership as an executive. Discussing her early days, she often mentions that inspiration comes from her mother who, being a single working parent, taught her values regarding education, hard work, and community involvement. These principles guided her through her career at AT&T, where she was recognized for her commitment to public service and community engagement.
Currently, Harrison assumes the role since 2022 and oversees public policy, economic development, and community relations for AT&T in the states of Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. She was president of AT&T Georgia and president of AT&T North Carolina, which allowed her to add to a growth pattern in the firm as well as positive relationships in these states.
In addition to corporate work, Harrison has continued to dedicate herself to civic leadership. She has been associated with several boards, including Metro Atlanta Chamber, Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Atlanta Committee for Progress, Georgia Historical Society, and North Carolina A&T State University Board of Trustees. Her work has earned her numerous recognitions as a top community development advocate, especially for Atlanta.
Harrison described her relationship to the city, calling it “a group project,” while pointing out she is privileged to work alongside such great local business and community leaders. She is still in love with the success of Atlanta and is committed to its future growth and prosperity. Looking forward, Harrison stated that she would like to engage more in giving back to the community in an advisory capacity. She further expressed that she would like to contribute to nonprofit organizations by using her experience and expertise to help them thrive.