May 26, 2000


William Harris Leaves Biosphere 2 To Return To South Carolina As Vice President Of Research

Founding President and Executive Director Dr. William C. Harris of Columbia's Biosphere 2 has accepted the position of vice president for research at the University of South Carolina.

Over the past 3 1/2 years, Dr. Harris has led what many in the media and in surrounding Arizona communities have referred to as the turn-around of the decade, transforming a troubled operation into a respected research, education, and public service institution.

"Bill Harris has brought vision, energy, and focus on achievement to an extraordinary challenge," said Executive Vice Provost Michael Crow. "Only a few of us realized what had to be done to make this project succeed, and I don't know anyone who could have achieved what Bill Harris has for this emerging institution."

On his decision to leave Biosphere 2, Dr. Harris said, "I was not seeking another position, but I am excited by this opportunity to return value to my doctoral alma mater at a very promising time in its development. Though USC is a well established university, it has great ambition, and I would like to make the sort of difference there that I believe I have here at Biosphere 2."

At Biosphere 2 Dr. Harris leaves a start-up institution now on secure ground. Education and public program revenues have grown; research programs have steadily increased grants earnings; and private foundation and individual support has been obtained for buildings, public programs, and a scholarship endowment.

Last December, Columbia's Trustees approved a long-term commitment to building a $50 million research and education campus in Oracle.

Nearly 30 other universities and colleges share as academic partners in the resources and programs of Biosphere 2 campus. Dr. Harris has established an industry partnership that provides substantial long-term scholarship and public exhibit support. He has strengthened community relations in both Tucson and Phoenix, and he has launched a plan for campus expansion over the next 12 months to accommodate 300 students.

Under his leadership, Biosphere 2 has gained recognition nationally and abroad as a unique enterprise in research, education and public outreach.

"Bill Harris and his team have done an outstanding job with Biosphere 2," said President George Rupp. "The transformation of this unique environmental research facility is in large measure attributable to Bill's talent, judgment and energy. The University of South Carolina is getting a Vice President for Research of enormous ability and integrity. He leaves very big shoes to fill."

Dr. Harris assumes his South Carolina position in August but will serve as president of the Biosphere 2 Center Corporation through a transition to new leadership.