Robert Harper
- Section:
- Board of Directors
Robert Harper is a community leader, former college athlete, academic scholar, vocal scholar, and advocate for expanding opportunity. Originally from Chicago and raised in North Minneapolis, Robert has spent his career helping young people, small businesses, and communities reach their full potential.
A lifelong singer, Robert grew up singing in church, participated in choir throughout middle and high school, and earned a vocal scholarship to sing with the Augsburg Choir while attending Augsburg University. Today, he serves as Senior Community Empowerment Manager for Mortenson’s Sports + Entertainment Group, where he builds partnerships connecting people to opportunities to participate in building megaprojects across the country.
Robert is passionate about the power of music, mentorship, and leadership development to transform lives, which makes serving on the Voicez Inc. Board a natural fit. He is excited to support the next generation of young leaders as they find their voice and purpose through the arts.
Why did you choose to serve on the Voicez Inc. Board?
I’ve admired Voicez Inc for many years and have had the privilege of looking forward to the 3rd Sunday of every month when the choir performs at Fellowship. As someone who grew up singing in church, participated in choir throughout middle school and high school, and later received a vocal scholarship to sing with the Augsburg Choir, I understand firsthand how transformative music can be in a young person’s life. Singing in my room as a kid was a relief for my mental health (though it annoyed my older brothers), and it also gave me early exposure to being on a stage and public speaking in front of large audiences.
What excites me most about Voicez is that this organization develops confident, socially-conscious and community-minded young leaders. I am grateful for the opportunity to support Courtland and the entire Voicez team as they continue building an organization that pours into our next generation.
What’s one piece of advice you would give your younger self?
Don’t allow anyone to put you in a box. Be an athlete. Be a scholar. Be an artist. Be an activist. And if society grapples with understanding the multicontextuality of your character, it’s not your responsibility to help them. Focus on showing up as your authentic self in each of those spaces, building relationships, and serving others. Many of the opportunities that shaped my life came from being unapologetically myself, staying open to try new experiences, and trusting the process. The anointing on your life will outlast any stereotype or opposition.
Lastly, I’ve attached my headshot and below is a short bio. Please let me know if there’s anything else you need from me.