Who I Am

I’ve spent more than twenty years leading complex organizations, building systems, and supporting teams in spaces where outcomes truly mattered - non-governmental organizations, nonprofits, public service, and community-centered work. Over that time, I learned how to steward vision, manage risk, navigate ambiguity, and build structures that allow people and organizations to thrive.

My academic path shaped that lens: a foundation in psychology from Howard University, graduate training in public administration from Villanova University, and advanced study in UX design at the Maryland Institute College of Art. Together, they taught me how people think, how systems function, and how experiences are designed - intentionally or unintentionally.

Through years of reflection and truth-telling, something became unmistakably clear:

I wanted my work to align fully with my purpose and who I am at my core.

I am, and have always been, a creator. I have always loved building - systems, spaces, ideas, experiences. I am inspired by understanding people deeply, honoring their stories, and helping them move toward lives and environments that reflect their truth.

That clarity led me to make a major pivot - not away from what I’ve done, but toward the work I was meant to do: work that allows people to feel connected, and at home - in their spaces, their businesses, and their own lives.

The Arc Collective was born from that calling. It is a place where creative expression, operational excellence, psychology, mindfulness, and service converge. This work allows me to build, to improve, to innovate, while holding space for others as they bring deeply personal visions to life. It is purpose work.

My approach is intentionally human and rigorously disciplined. I listen first. I ask questions others may not think to ask. I pay attention to how people feel - not just what they say - and I translate that into spaces, systems, and experiences that function beautifully, endure gracefully, and honor the people within them.

I see my role as a steward, collaborator, and conduit - a trusted creative partner who helps transform vision into something real, thoughtful, and lasting. Creative expression is intimate work, and I hold it with care, honesty, and deep respect. My commitment is that you can show up fully - your hopes, your opportunities, your story - and trust that it will be reflected with integrity in what we build together.

What I create with clients is never just aesthetic, and never just strategic. It is mindful, operationally sound, human-centered, and deeply intentional.

Because design should not simply exist. It should support. It should inspire. It should work.

And that is the lens I bring to every project I touch. I look forward to working with you and helping bring your vision to life.

Ayanna Harrison
Owner | Founder