Table of Contents
Relationship History of Basil Smikle and Marjorie Fields Harris
Basil Smikle and Marjorie Fields Harris tied the knot in May 2021. Marjorie, a prominent figure, serves as the Pioneer Head of a social freedom association.1
 Background and Professional Profiles
Basil Smikle
Basil Smikle is a distinguished figure in academia and public service. Holding positions such as a Recognized Instructor and Head of the Roosevelt House Public Policy Institute’s Public Policy Program, he brings over 15 years of experience in higher education and 25 years in public service.
Basil is a frequent commentator on leadership, public policy, and electoral politics on major news networks like CNN and MSNBC. His academic background includes a Ph.D. in Education and Politics and a MPA from Columbia University, along with a Bachelor of Arts from Cornell University.
 Marjorie Fields Harris
Marjorie Fields Harris is deeply entrenched in the political landscape, known for her advocacy work and communication expertise. She serves as the President and CEO of Seven Fields Communications, overseeing strategic communication, government relations, and reputation management initiatives.
Marjorie’s career spans roles such as Press Secretary for the City of Newark and Director of Marketing and Government Affairs for MoCaFi. She holds a JD from The Columbus School of Law at the Catholic University of America and a BA in Journalism from Howard University.
Relationship Timeline
 Initial Meeting and Courtship
Basil and Marjorie first crossed paths during Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton’s campaign, where they felt an immediate connection. Despite initial professional boundaries, their interactions evolved, culminating in their engagement within two months of their first significant encounter.2
First Date and Engagement
Their first date, filled with laughter and dancing, set the stage for a whirlwind romance. Basil proposed within two months, and the couple decided to prioritize personal matters over political discussions, cementing their commitment.
Lavish Wedding and Celebration
After 18 months of engagement, Basil and Marjorie exchanged vows in a grand ceremony at St. George Episcopal Church, followed by a jubilant reception at the National Arts Club. The wedding, attended by political luminaries like Hillary Clinton and David Dinkins, was a blend of Jamaican and American cultures, reflecting the couple’s diverse backgrounds.
Caribbean Honeymoon and Separation
Following their wedding, Basil and Marjorie embarked on a Caribbean honeymoon. However, despite the joyous beginnings, their marriage faced challenges, leading to eventual separation and divorce after a few years.
This restructuring categorizes the information into distinct sections with clear subheadings, providing a structured overview of Basil and Marjorie’s relationship journey and professional backgrounds.
CAN YOU BELIEVE IT? The enforcement of the Constitution scares the Leftists to death – – – CNN Guest Says Speaker Johnson Actually Governing By The Constitution Is Scary For America
Democratic Strategist Basil Smikle said Wednesday on CNN that Speaker of the House Mike… pic.twitter.com/y7MtBOoxDn
— BelannF (@BelannF) November 22, 2023
Early Life and Family Background
Basil Smikle was born on January 12, 1972, in New York City, New York, to Jamaican immigrant parents.
While specific details about his parents remain undisclosed for privacy reasons, his father is identified as a retired textile worker, and his mother as a longtime public school special education teacher. Basil appears to be the only child of his parents.3
Education and Academic Achievements
Basil pursued his academic journey with determination, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Labor Relations from Cornell University (1989-1993), a Master of Public Policy from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (1994-1996), and ultimately, a Ph.D. in Politics and Education from Columbia University’s Teacher’s College (2011-2019).
Professional Career and Accomplishments
Basil Smikle has established himself as a prominent figure in academia and media. He serves as a lecturer at Teachers College, Columbia University, and has held executive positions within the New York State Democratic Party.
Despite his notable contributions, Basil does not have a Wikipedia page as of yet. He is also active on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook, garnering a significant following.
Personal Life: Marriage and Relationships
Basil Smikle was previously married to Marjorie Fields Harris, a respected entrepreneur and leader in social liberty organizations.
They exchanged vows on May 26, 2001, at the St. George Episcopal Church in Manhattan. However, their marriage ended in divorce after several years. The couple first crossed paths during a professional meeting associated with Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton’s senatorial campaign in January 2000.
Net Worth and Current Endeavors
With a successful career in academia and business, Basil Smikle has amassed an estimated net worth of $2 million.
He currently serves as the director of the Public Policy Program at Roosevelt House Institute, alongside his roles as an adjunct professor at Teachers College and Columbia University. Additionally, he is the founder of Basil Smikle Associates, showcasing his multifaceted contributions to various sectors.
Civic and Philanthropic Contributions
Prince Hall Free and Accepted Masons
Basil Smikle actively participates as a dedicated member of the Prince Hall Free and Accepted Masons, contributing to their philanthropic and community service endeavors.4
100 Black Men of New York
As a part of the 100 Black Men of New York, Basil Smikle played a pivotal role in establishing the Eagle Academy in the Bronx. This initiative has since expanded to encompass six schools across New York and New Jersey, serving as a beacon of education and opportunity for young individuals.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc.
Basil Smikle is also involved with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., engaging in various initiatives aimed at fostering leadership, mentorship, and community upliftment.
Professional Endeavors
Political Strategy and Policy Analysis
In addition to his philanthropic pursuits, Basil Smikle, a 51-year-old American lecturer, is recognized for his expertise in political strategy and policy analysis. He brings his insights and experience to the forefront, contributing to informed decision-making processes.
Educational Initiatives
Harlem Hebrew Academy Charter School
Basil Smikle played a foundational role in the establishment of the Harlem Hebrew Academy Charter School, demonstrating his commitment to innovative educational initiatives.
NYC Center for Charter Excellence
Currently, Basil Smikle serves on the board of the NYC Center for Charter Excellence, where he continues to advocate for excellence and innovation in charter school education within the New York City community.
Wedding Details of Basil Smikle and Marjorie Fields Harris
The Ceremony
Basil Smikle and Marjorie Fields Harris exchanged vows on May 26, 2001, at St. George Episcopal Church in Manhattan. The ceremony was a notable event covered by prestigious publications such as The New York Times, New York Daily News, and New York Magazine.
Attire and Style
Basil opted for a tuxedo from Dante Zeller Tuxedos, while Marjorie dazzled in a Reem Acra gown complemented by Badgley Mischka shoes and a headpiece from Kleinfeld. Their attire reflected sophistication and elegance, setting the tone for their special day.
Love Story and Engagement
Their love story began at a professional gathering in January 2000 during Representative Hillary Rodham Clinton’s senatorial campaign. After feeling an instant connection, they got engaged less than two months after their first date.
Cultural Blend and Reception
The couple, with backgrounds in Jamaican and American cultures, incorporated elements of both into their warm and social ceremony. The reception featured a mix of American and Jamaican dishes, symbolizing their diverse backgrounds and shared values.
Political Affiliations and Home Life
Despite their differing political affiliations—Marjorie working for Al Sharpton and Basil for Senator Hillary Clinton—they chose to keep political discussions at bay at home, prioritizing personal matters to nurture their relationship.
Guests and Political Ties
Their guest list included prominent figures like David Dinkins and Hillary Clinton, highlighting their strong political ties and influence within their community.
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Professional Achievements
- Marjorie Fields Harris, a seasoned communications strategist, boasts a successful career in brand marketing, campaign management, and crisis communications.
- With degrees from The Columbus School of Law of the Catholic University of America and Howard University, she has made significant contributions to her field.
- Overall, Basil Smikle and Marjorie Fields Harris’ wedding was a celebration of love that merged their diverse backgrounds and shared values, marking the beginning of their journey as a married couple.
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Children Details
Private Family Matters
After their marriage, Basil Smikle and Marjorie Fields Harris embarked on a journey filled with shared dreams and aspirations. Despite the unfortunate turn leading to their divorce, their union witnessed moments of joy and celebration.
Professional and Personal Balance
Marjorie, renowned for her expertise in communication strategy, has forged a successful career path while maintaining a commitment to family. Her academic achievements underscore her dedication to both professional and personal pursuits.
Privacy and Parenthood
While details about their children remain undisclosed, their decision to keep this aspect private reflects a desire to shield their family from the spotlight and maintain a sense of privacy amidst public scrutiny. Despite this, it’s evident that Basil and Marjorie approached parenthood with the same dedication and devotion evident in their professional lives.
Professional Background
Political Strategy and Policy Advisory Experience
Dr. Basil Smikle Jr. boasts nearly two decades of experience as a political strategist and policy advisor, spanning across local, national, and international levels.
His expertise encompasses electoral politics, governance, urban education policy, and public policy analysis. He has lectured at prestigious institutions such as Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs and Teachers College.
Educational Qualifications
With a PhD in Politics and Education, an MPA from Columbia University, and a Bachelor of Science from Cornell University, Dr. Smikle brings a robust academic background to his professional endeavors.
Media Presence
A familiar face on prominent media outlets like MSNBC, CNN, and NY1, Dr. Smikle frequently shares his insights and research on various political topics.
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Professional Achievements
Executive Director of the New York State Democratic Party
Appointed by Governor Andrew Cuomo and Former Governor David Paterson in 2015, Dr. Smikle served as the Executive Director of the New York State Democratic Party.
In this role, he played a pivotal role in managing electoral and fundraising strategies, recruiting political candidates, and implementing grassroots mobilization programs.
Recognition and Awards
Dr. Smikle’s dedication to public service and education equity has earned him accolades from notable figures such as Governor Andrew Cuomo and New York State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. He has been acknowledged as part of “Harlem’s New Political Elite” by the L.A. Times and praised by Senator Cory Booker as a “much sought-after consultant”.
Impactful Contributions
Under Dr. Smikle’s leadership, the Democratic Party in New York achieved significant milestones, including flipping county legislatures, county-wide seats, and regaining full Democratic control of the State Senate in 2018.
Personal Background
Roots and Inspirations
Dr. Smikle’s upbringing in the Bronx by Jamaican immigrants, coupled with the influence of his parents—a retired textile worker and a public school special education teacher—has shaped his commitment to community service and education.
Community Engagement
Actively involved in organizations such as Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Prince Hall Free and Accepted Masons, and 100 Black Men of New York, Dr. Smikle has contributed to initiatives like the establishment of the Eagle Academy in the Bronx and served as a founding board member of the Harlem Hebrew Academy Charter School. He also serves on the Board of the NYC Center for Charter Excellence.
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