Raised on a family farm that cultivated corn, soybeans and livestock, he then earned a bachelor of arts in economics from the University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana and a doctorate in Christian Theological Ethics from Vanderbilt University. He was ordained in the United Methodist Church, and in 1974, he joined Washington and Lee University’s faculty as a professor in the Department of Religion.

After 23 years of distinguished teaching at W&L, Harlan created the Shepherd Program on Poverty and Human Capability, an interdisciplinary endeavor that synthesized his studies in economics and Christian ethics. This groundbreaking and influential program called on students to explore poverty both in the classroom and in working directly with underresourced communities.

In addition to teaching unforgettable courses for the Shepherd Program, Harlan served for two decades as its executive director, overseeing a consortium of 17 schools across the country until his retirement in 2017.

Harlan held many distinguished positions throughout his remarkable career, from president of the Society of Christian Ethics (2000) to interim president of W&L (2006-2007). He also received numerous professional accolades, including an Outstanding Faculty Award from the Virginia State Council of Higher Education (2002) and an honorary degree from W&L (2018).

A devoted husband, father, and grandfather, Harlan loved his family even more than he loved the Chicago Cubs. He shared 54 years of marriage with his beloved wife Debby, and together they raised three children — Benjamin (Jess), Jonathan (Stephne) and Rachel (Mark) — who will forever carry his steady guidance and unconditional love in their hearts. He was also a doting grandfather to Houston, Scarlette and Sarah, who brought him endless pride and happiness.

Through his gentle understanding and deep commitment to improving the world, Harlan touched so many lives.

His legacy lives on through the countless people fortunate enough to have known him.

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