Anniya Harris ’26 begins service in historic Peace Corps training class
A Houston Posse Scholar, Harris double majored in political science and international relations and American studies at Carleton.
Anniya Harris ’26 has been accepted into the Peace Corps and will depart for Cambodia on July 31 as a primary and secondary English teacher. Harris’ training class includes the 250,000th Peace Corps volunteer — a historic class for the agency now in its 65th year of putting purpose, passion, and skills to work for America and the world.
Originally from Houston, Texas and one of Carleton’s Posse Scholars, Harris double majored in American studies and political science and international relations at Carleton.
“With Carleton being a small liberal arts college, I learned quickly that community was my biggest resource,” Harris said. “While serving as a teacher in Cambodia, I aspire to work diligently with community members and Peace Corps staff to grow as a guide, teacher, friend, and resource.”
As a primary and secondary English teacher, Harris will collaborate with educators to integrate effective teaching strategies and improve students’ English proficiency. Harris will complete 10 weeks of pre-service training before swearing in as a Peace Corps volunteer and beginning her years of service.
Peace Corps volunteers serve in host communities for two years following their training, gaining professional skills and experience while fostering mutual understanding and promoting American values. They receive volunteer benefits, including a living stipend, housing, and vacation time; comprehensive language, cultural, and technical training; medical and dental care; student loan assistance; and travel to and from their country of service. After service, returned volunteers receive financial benefits, transition support, and career services; qualify for educational fellowships and programs, advantages in federal employment, and additional service opportunities; and gain access to the extensive returned volunteer community.
Interested individuals are encouraged to apply online. Visit peacecorps.gov to learn more about Peace Corps volunteer service in more than 60 countries.
About the Peace Corps
The U.S. Government’s premier international volunteering agency, the Peace Corps sends passionate and skilled Americans abroad to collaborate on projects that advance both American and host country priorities. This year, the agency commemorates 65 years of putting purpose, passion, and skills to work for America and the world through volunteer service while partnering with America250 to encourage more Americans to give back. Since 1961, the Peace Corps has played a vital role in advancing U.S. global engagement through the work of 250,000 volunteers serving in 144 host countries.