Michael Harper joined the Missouri Military Academy staff as the new director for development, according to a MMA news release.

In this role, Harper will focus on fundraising, grant writing and forging positive relationships with alumni, parents, foundations, the community and friends of MMA.

Harper comes to MMA from the Missouri Press Foundation in Columbia, where he had served as executive director since 2018. His career in development and marketing has included stints with the Missouri Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence, Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla, Central Methodist University, University of the Ozarks and the University of Arkansas. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English, theatre and creative writing and a master’s degree in higher education administration, both from the University of Arkansas.

“I am excited about this opportunity to help empower the young men of MMA to reach their potential,” Harper said in the release. “MMA’s core values of love, honor and truth are the keys to a successful life where a person is a happy and productive member of their community. I want to help shape the lives of MMA cadets by growing the resouces available to them.”

The release stated Harper’s responsibilities will encompass efforts geared toward the advancement of MMA through relationship-building and fundraising. He will assist the MMA leadership in strategic development of various campaigns for the campus to serve the needs of MMA’s young men and their families into the future.

“We are pleased to welcome Michael Harper as our new director for development,” said MMA President Brigadier General Richard V. Geraci, USA (Ret), in the release. “He has the educational background, expertise, energy and confidence to advance MMA’s future as he interacts with board members, alumni, parents, foundations, business leaders and corporate executives, connecting their philanthropic goals with the needs of our cadets and the Academy.”