MEET THE FOUNDERS
Randolph "Rusty" Harrison
Rusty Harrison is an educator, author, Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach, and former counseling therapist whose work focuses on resilience, strengths development, positive psychology, and lifelong learning. A native of the sea islands of South Carolina, he has dedicated much of his professional career to helping students and communities develop practical skills for well-being, personal growth, and purposeful living.
Throughout his career in higher education, Rusty has been recognized for his leadership in student success and educational innovation. He developed Western Piedmont Community College’s nationally recognized First-Year Experience Program, grounded in strengths development and positive psychology, which received recognition from The Gardner Institute for its impact and effectiveness. His contributions to education have also earned honors including the Roston Endowed Teaching Chair and the WPCC Excellence in Teaching Award.
Alongside his wife and collaborator, Erica Harrison, Rusty co-authored the award-winning book A Guide for Aging Heroes, recipient of recognition from Literary Titan, the International Firebird Book Awards, and The American Writing Awards.
Through Aging Heroes, Rusty helps develop educational programming, public resources, and community-based learning experiences designed to encourage resilience, meaningful connection, lifelong growth, and overall well-being.
Erica Schwarting Harrison
Erica Harrison brings together experience in healthcare leadership, wellness advocacy, creative communication, and community engagement. Her work has consistently centered on supporting human connection, inclusion, compassion, and emotional well-being.
During her healthcare career, Erica led programs in hospital spiritual care, volunteer services, employee wellness, diversity and inclusion initiatives, and community engagement. Her leadership emphasized compassionate support, service to others, and attention to the human dimensions of health and well-being.
In addition to her professional work, Erica has participated in charitable and volunteer initiatives supporting underserved communities and youth-centered programs alongside Rusty.
Erica’s background in photography, fashion design, and visual storytelling continues to shape her creative work through Aging Heroes. She is especially interested in mindfulness, creativity, intentional living, and the use of storytelling to encourage reflection, learning, and connection.
Her passion for wellness and exploration has also led her to participate in numerous endurance events, including marathons, trail races, Ragnar relays, and the Mt. Kilimanjaro Marathon.
Through Aging Heroes, Erica helps develop educational experiences and creative resources that promote community engagement, lifelong learning, reflection, and holistic well-being.
