Jill Bussey Harris was born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from Fisk University. In 1987, she graduated from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry. After graduation, Dr. Bussey practiced dentistry in Chicago, Illinois before relocating to Richmond. Dr. Bussey became the first full time African American female Assistant Professor at VCU/MCV School of Dentistry in 1989. During her tenure at VCU, she established the Student National Dental Association. Dr. Bussey remained a professor at VCU until 1992. She resigned from VCU School of Dentistry to start her own private practice. Dr. Bussey has been in private practice as a family and cosmetic dentist for thirty-four years.
Her renowned practice located in the museum district of Richmond was rebranded as Beautiful Smiles by Dr. Jill Bussey in 2008. Dr. Bussey has served on several boards, she has always had a passion for philanthropic programs. She served as the Fairy Godmother for the Make A Wish Foundation of Greater Virginia in 2016 and served as president for The Links Incorporated, Richmond (VA) Chapter from 2013-2017. Currently, she is the Co-Chair for the Health and Human Services Eastern Area of The Links, Incorporated. Her great work and dedication have not gone without notice as she was awarded the University of Louisville School of Dentistry Alumni Fellow Award in 2013. She continues to give back, Dr. Bussey and her husband established the Dr. Monroe E. Harris, Jr and Dr. Jill Bussey Harris Scholarship for African American students at the University of Louisville School of Dentistry.
Most recently they are the Co-Chairs of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Capital Campaign. Dr. Bussey has been married to Dr. Monroe E. Harris, Jr. for thirty-seven years, they have two adult children, Monroe III and Madison.
