State of Black Learning Conference


“Building Strong Foundations: Intervention and Development for Young Students with Autism Ages 0–5”
The Jahmil Harris Foundation proudly celebrates a significant professional milestone for its Founder and CEO, Tammy Presley-Harris, MHS, who had the honor of serving as a speaker at the State of Black Learning Conference in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
August 5-8, 2026 | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Tammy presented “Building Strong Foundations: Intervention and Development for Young Students with Autism Ages 0–5,” a topic closely connected to her professional leadership, advocacy, and commitment to ensuring that young children and their families have access to the early support and resources they need to thrive. Her presentation emphasized the importance of early intervention, inclusive educational practices, family engagement, educator development, and intentional leadership in building stronger foundations for young children with autism.
For Tammy, speaking at the State of Black Learning Conference represented far more than a professional accomplishment. It reflected years of dedication to education, leadership, advocacy, and service to children, families, and underserved communities.
As a Doctoral Candidate in Educational Leadership at the University of Phoenix and Director of Intervention and Development, Tammy continues to bridge scholarship and practice while advocating for educational environments in which every child is valued, supported, included, and provided meaningful opportunities to reach their fullest potential.
This milestone also reflects the heart and mission of The Jahmil Harris Foundation. Established in loving memory of Tammy’s son, Jahmil Imaad Presley-Harris, the Foundation was created to transform grief into purpose by strengthening children, youth, families, and communities through education, mental health advocacy, violence prevention, community engagement, and access to essential resources.
Standing on the State of Black Learning Conference platform provided Tammy with another opportunity to carry that mission forward. Her presence represented not only her professional and academic journey, but also her family, the communities she serves, and the enduring legacy of Jahmil.
“Every opportunity I have to educate, advocate, lead, and serve is another opportunity to transform purpose into action. I carry Jahmil with me in everything I do. His legacy continues to inspire my commitment to creating opportunities that strengthen children, empower families, and build healthier communities.”
— Tammy Presley-Harris, MHS
This achievement represents another chapter in the ongoing work of The Jahmil Harris Foundation—demonstrating how personal purpose, education, leadership, and community service can come together to create meaningful and lasting change.
To learn more about the State of Black Learning Conference and view Tammy Presley-Harris in the Speakers section, visit stateofblacklearningconference.com.
Tammy Presley-Harris, MHS
Founder & CEO, The Jahmil Harris Foundation
Director of Intervention and Development
Doctoral Candidate, Educational Leadership
University of Phoenix
The Jahmil Harris Foundation Transforming Grief Into Purpose. Building Hope. Strengthening Communities.
