June is Pride Month, dedicated to the celebration and commemoration of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) pride. EASTERN celebrated by interviewing LGBTQ+ individuals who are leaders in their programs. Today, we spotlight Rhea Harris, a first-year student in EASTERN’s Protective Services program and a junior at Upper Dublin High School.

When Rhea thinks about Pride Month, she envisions an inclusive celebration where everyone comes together to be themselves freely. "Pride Month is a time to embrace your true self and celebrate who you are," Rhea shared. "It's important to be true to yourself and be you." Rhea credits her supportive family with making her the confident and driven person she is today. "My mother encouraged me to come out to her so I could be more comfortable in my own skin. I am so grateful for the unconditional love from my family."

Rhea chose the Protective Services program at EASTERN because she comes from a long line of individuals who have served our country, starting with her grandmother. "My grandmother served 32 years in the U.S. Army," said Rhea. "I also have an uncle in the Army and cousins who are Marines. The Marines are the branch of the military that spoke to me." Rhea also has a love for firefighting and wants to make that part of her future. She plans to join the Philadelphia Fire Explorers program this summer.

Being one of only a few females in her Protective Services class, Rhea feels it is preparing her well for the field. "When you go into the first responder field, the fact is, there are fewer women," said Rhea. "In my program, I have built a great relationship with my classmates. Mr. Raggi made that easy from the beginning by ensuring everyone knows that we are all equal in his class."

Family is a priority for Rhea. "I feel a duty to keep everyone safe," she said. "I love my family, and I don't know what I would do if something happened, and I couldn't help them. The Protective Services program is giving me the skills I need for any unexpected emergency. I want to thank my mother and my grandmother for encouraging me to join the Protective Services program and to be who I am.”

Rhea volunteers her time to assist at EASTERN recruitment events, such as tours and Open House. At Upper Dublin High School, she is actively involved in the Black Student Union and the GSA.