Dr. Harper, Executive Director
Contact Info
Email: harpern@gvsu.edu
Short Biography
Executive Director of the ALERT Laboratories, Former Dean of Social Sciences at GVSU, Professor of Organizational and Health Communication (ret.),
Long Biography
Dr. Harper has 34 years experience as a university faculty member, including 17 years in university administration as Assistant and Associate Dean for Outreach and Finance at the University of Iowa, Department Chair at Duquesne University, Dean of Social Sciences and Director of Alcohol (and other drug) Education, Research, and Training at Grand Valley State University (GVSU). She has authored books on communication theory and on the unique "clusters" approach to academic and career advising. She has also conducted research and published monographs on these topics and on applied organizational and health communication. Dr. Harper specializes in the study of persuasive communication, especially in relation to prevention of underage drinking and drug use, heavy adult substance use, and recovery from Substance Use Disorders.
May 1, 2010
April 2010 "Parents Are Heroes" Newsletter Posted.
Go to About Us > Newsletters > April 2010 Newsletter
Hosting a Drinking Party for Graduating High School Students Can Result in Arrest, Big Fines and Court Costs, MIP’s for the Guests, and Even Tragedy…. The best choice for Graduation Parties is to go alcohol-free, focusing on activities suited for 18-year olds rather than targeting the party to adults.
Mar 28, 2010
- March 2010 "Parents Are Heroes" Newsletter Posted.
Go to About Us > Newsletters > March 2010 Newsletter
Feb 28, 2010
February 2010 "Parents Are Heroes" Newsletter Posted.
Go to About Us > Newsletters > February 2010 Newsletter
Increasing the Price of Alcohol by 50% Through Excise Taxes Would: Reduce Underage Drinking, Heavy (Binge) Drinking, and Youth Traffic Deaths.
Feb 25, 2010
ALERT Labs' Video Posted
This student-produced 17-minute video, "College and Alcohol: Students Speak," features interviews with 12 students on seven topics common to college life.
It was shown to thousands of new students. More videos will be posted soon.
Jan 28, 2010
"Parents Are Heroes" Newsletter Posted January 2010 Newsletter.
- Most Americans have struggled with alcohol problems: 63% of Families and 30% of Individuals