Harper is currently Dean of the Graduate School of Arts and Science at New York University.
From the Mellon press release, "The position, effective October 1, 2020, will shape and direct giving on issues surrounding higher education, particularly in the humanities and liberal arts. Critically, Harper will encourage expanded access to those disciplines while implementing a new strategic direction for the Foundation that is focused specifically on social justice and equity. In addition to leading program staff in Higher Learning, he will advise more broadly on strategic concerns and special initiatives."