Jamillya Hardley (pronounced Jah-meal-yah) is the Director of the Woodrick Center for Inclusion and Multicultural Affairs at Grand Rapids Community College, where she has spent the past five years leading initiatives that advance equity, belonging, and student success for historically underserved populations. She is also the creator of Rise Up & Achieve, a student success and stabilization program designed to support student retention, engagement, and completion.
A first-generation college graduate and Grand Rapids native, Jamillya brings over a decade of experience in higher education and student affairs, including roles in residence life, advising, career development, and teaching. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Michigan, where she was also a member of the women’s basketball program, and a Master of Education in Higher Education from Grand Valley State University. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Central Michigan University.
As a higher education practitioner, educator, and former student-athlete, Jamillya is passionate about creating inclusive spaces, fostering meaningful student engagement, and building systems of support that help students feel seen, supported, and empowered to succeed.
