Influential Woman · Independent Publishing and Government Contracting
Joelle Harris, BSB, MBA
Founder | Creative Director, Clair J. Monae Publishing House
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Her Story
About Joelle
Joelle Harris, BSB, MBA, is an accomplished business professional serving as a Program and Contracts Analyst at St. Moritz Enterprises, LLC. In this role, she specializes in government proposal compliance, proposal development, contract administration, and operational process improvement. She has contributed to proposal writing and developed several foundational organizational resources, including a proposal operating system, corporate policies manual, and proposal compliance matrix. Her ability to combine analytical thinking, technical expertise, and strategic execution enables her to strengthen organizational processes while supporting successful business outcomes. Prior to joining St. Moritz Enterprises, Joelle served as an Executive Assistant at Primary Care Health Services, Incorporated, where she built the organization's first marketing department from the ground up, demonstrating her initiative, creativity, and ability to develop systems and functions from inception. She later worked as a Technical Support Specialist at Guardian Protection, where she excelled in a highly technical and demanding environment. Notably, she became the first woman of color in the organization to pass the technical certification examination on her first attempt after only three weeks of training, reflecting her determination, adaptability, and commitment to excellence. In addition to her corporate career, Joelle founded Clair J. Monae Publishing House in 2022 and has independently produced 53 books, including authored works, planners, journals, and other low-content publications. Harris earned her Bachelor of Science in Business and Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix, graduating Magna Cum Laude with her bachelor's degree and earning a 4.0 GPA and Distinction in her MBA program. She is a member of Delta Mu Delta and the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, as well as a Presidential Member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. Beyond her professional achievements, she serves as a mentor, sharing her knowledge and experience to help others navigate their careers and reach their potential. Joelle attributes her success to operating with a spirit of excellence, maintaining discipline and perseverance, and relying on her faith in God Almighty as the foundation and center of both her professional and personal journey.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Joelle
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to fully embracing and walking in the fullness of who God created me to be, without dimming my light or compromising who I am. I rely on God as the foundation of my life, seeking His guidance while exercising discernment, wisdom, and intentionality in my decisions. I have learned to recognize my strengths, trust the abilities I have been given, and operate with confidence, excellence, and purpose. For me, success means remaining authentic to my values, walking boldly in my gifts, and allowing my faith to guide me as I continue to grow and make a meaningful impact. My children also inspire me daily to be the best version of myself and to be the best example to them of what success can be achieved through smart work and leadership. A special shout-out to them! My babies, y’all rock!
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to never take “no” as a personal rejection. People may not always recognize your potential, and sometimes they may see your abilities but feel uncomfortable with your growth or success. I have learned to remain confident in my capabilities, continue pursuing opportunities, and never allow someone else’s perception to define my potential. Most importantly, I believe you should never dim your light to make other people comfortable in the dark. Stay true to who you are, continue developing your gifts, and have the courage to let your strengths shine.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The advice I would give to young women entering my industry whether it be independent publishing or government contracting is to never dim your light to make others comfortable in the dark. Do not allow anyone, including men who may underestimate or dismiss you, to make you feel small or question your abilities. Let your work, professionalism, and character speak for themselves, and always operate with a spirit of excellence. You do not have to prove your worth to anyone else; your greatest responsibility is to remain true to yourself, continue developing your strengths, and become the best version of the woman you are capable of being.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
I believe the biggest challenge regardless of industry is to never compare yourself or work to anyone else. The only individual you are in competition with is the version of who you were yesterday. Always strive to do your best everyday, even when you don’t feel like it. That attitude builds character, shows your ability to make things happen, to operate in the spirit of excellence, and let your work speak for you.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My faith is the foundation of both my personal and professional life. As a follower of Christ, I strive to emulate His example by leading with integrity, compassion, humility, and purpose. I depend on God as my source and center, seeking His guidance in the decisions I make and the way I conduct myself in both business and life. I also believe strongly in operating with a spirit of excellence, giving my best effort in everything I do and remaining committed to high standards, authenticity, and continuous growth.
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