DECATUR, Ill. – From her first day on campus, Ameena Al-Nurridin Harris ’26 has made it her mission to get the most out of her Millikin University experience – and to give even more back. The Political Science and Criminal Justice double major from Riverdale, Illinois, has become one of Millikin’s most visible and inspiring student leaders, leaving her mark through advocacy, mentorship, and an unshakable belief in the power of community.
Ameena’s journey to Millikin began with a college mailing list and a leap of faith. During her senior year of high school, she was overwhelmed by options until Millikin’s personal outreach caught her attention. A campus visit with her parents sealed the deal.
“It was a sunny day, everyone was welcoming, and my dad loved it,” she recalled. “I felt like I could do something here.”
Her decision was reinforced by an email from Millikin Associate Professor of Political Science, Dr. Laura Dean, who personally reached out to discuss Ameena’s interest in political science.
“That connection showed me Millikin cared before I even said yes,” Ameena said. “From that point on, I knew I was in the right place.”
Since arriving on campus, Ameena has immersed herself in leadership and service. She currently serves as President of the Black Student Union (BSU) and Kappa Zeta Chapter President of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and has been an EDGE mentor, Council of Student Advisors member, and Homecoming Queen.
Ameena’s leadership has always been deeply personal and shaped by the values instilled by her parents. Her mother, Fatimah, has long been an advocate for youth and community engagement, often taking Ameena to Springfield as a child to lobby for workers’ rights and fair wages. Her late father, Darryl, was her steady source of strength and motivation.
During her junior year at Millikin, Ameena’s world changed when her father passed away unexpectedly.
“He was my biggest supporter,” she said. “We talked every first day of classes, and he always told me, ‘Even if I didn’t get the full college experience, I want you to have it for the both of us.’”
But rather than step back, Ameena found the courage to keep moving forward—with the help of her Millikin community. Professors, staff, and classmates reached out with messages, cards, and care packages.
“The support I received was incredible,” she said. “Millikin really wrapped its arms around me. When I came back to campus, I knew I was in the right hands.”
Fueled by her father’s memory and her mother’s unwavering support, Ameena returned to campus determined to honor her father’s legacy through service and excellence.
“He wanted me to finish strong,” she said. “That became my promise to him and to myself.”
At the 2025 Fall Opening Convocation in September, Ameena addressed the Class of 2029 with humor, honesty, and determination, challenging them to get their money’s worth out of college. She wasn’t just talking about tuition; she meant every opportunity Millikin offers.
“I tell students to squeeze every drop out of this experience like it’s the last Capri Sun on earth,” she said. “Join the clubs, show up for events, go to that guest lecture, say yes to something that scares you. That’s how you grow.”
For Ameena, leadership means opening doors for those who come after her. As an EDGE mentor, she has guided three cohorts of first-year students, many of whom still reach out for advice. Her involvement with the Black Student Union and Delta Sigma Theta also centers on building connections and empowerment.
“I love when my mentees tell me they got an internship or transferred and are thriving. It’s full-circle – it shows that the support you give at Millikin lasts long after you leave,” she said. “BSU gave me a family within the Millikin community,” she said. “I wanted to continue that legacy for future students and to make sure everyone knows they belong here.”
As she prepares to graduate in spring 2026, Ameena plans to pursue a master’s degree in Public Administration with hopes of a future in civic leadership and community engagement. Reflecting on her journey, Ameena says her Millikin story has exceeded every expectation.
“I came here hoping to find my place,” she said. “Instead, I found my purpose. Millikin has poured into me, and I’ve poured everything I have right back. That’s what it means to get your money’s worth.”
