S1 E02 President Alicia Harrison

Alicia Harrison, originally from the Bay Area of California, lived there until the age of 15. The only daughter of William and Wilma Bower and sister to 3 brothers, she had many spiritual experiences in her youth. Her parents, both converts to The Church, were dedicated in their callings and to living the gospel of Jesus Christ.  Living in an environment with other active youth and the Oakland Temple helped set a foundation for her future. After the death of her maternal grandfather, everyone but her oldest brother who was married moved to Hutchinson, KS. Her time in California prepared her for the challenges in the Midwest. Her new small ward had 7 youth who all attended different high schools in the county. Many of the young women during her time in Kansas lived less than idyllic lives. This was a time of discovery of her own strengths and relying upon the spirit to guide her in her choices and youth callings.

It was a struggle that led her down a path for several years that was not straight, and lessons were learned that strengthened her resolve to return to the iron rod. Married with 2 daughters, living in Illinois and striving to live the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Lord blessed her with opportunities to serve in Primary. Her husband of 16 years worked with the missionaries many times, but after manybitter struggles, the marriage dissolved. With 2 teenage daughters, a dental hygiene career, and an amazing ward family, Sister Harrison started rebuilding her life. Temple attendance was at the center. Traveling over 3 hours one way provided ample opportunity for reflection and defining life goals. With Heavenly Father’s guidance, she was called as the Ward Relief Society President.

Sister Harrison has come to realize that her Heavenly Father understands her better than anyone else. What could have been a hardship was a blessing beyond measure. Service in the gospel of Jesus Christ has become her breath of fresh air. When life seems stifling and overwhelming, serve others. It was during this time that she met her Eternal Companion, Charles Harrison. After a year of courtship and blending 7 personalities they were married in the Nauvoo Temple in 2003. Beginning again with 4 daughters and 1 son, the Harrisons strived to build a home of gospel principles, temple attendance, and healing. The family moved to Kentucky where most of the children graduated high school and consider home.

Sister Harrison has been a practicing hygienist for 31 years. Her primary focus has been with pediatric patients.  Her Bachelor of Science degree in Community Health Education from Illinois State University has allowed her to be involved in many community efforts.  Her first was with the Illinois Special Olympic Special Smiles Program, Missions of Mercy in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, Honduras BMDMI, and Head Start programs in KY. Alicia feels that her current position as Coordinator of Dental Outreach at PrairieStar in Hutchinson is the perfect occupation. Providing screenings and preventive dental care to students, adults with disabilities, and nursing home residents is a dream come true. Everyday is a day of service.

In 2018, Charles passed away after 3 years of struggling health issues. This loss, though difficult, was an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the Plan of Salvation; a chance to feel how loved ones on the other side of the veil can still be an active part in one’s life. Sister Harrison was teaching seminary at the time and continued teaching her 4th year of seminary and was blessed by focusing daily on the scriptures. 

Currently, serving as the Wichita Kansas Stake Relief Society President, she has been blessed to work with and learn from so many dedicated disciples of Christ.

Sister Harrison loves her Heavenly Parents and Savior, she knows that trials are a part of the Plan of Happiness, and that staying true to the Gospel of Jesus Christ is the one and only way to return home.