Virginia Policy Review

Introducing Dr. Elsie Harper-Anderson! Dr. Elsie Harper-Anderson is an Associate Professor and Director of the Ph.D. program, L. Douglas Wilder School of Government and Public Affairs at Virginia Commonwealth University. Her research examines the impact of macroeconomic transformation on regional economies and urban labor markets with a focus on social equity and sustainability. Her current research focuses on understanding entrepreneurial ecosystems and their impact on building inclusive economies. She is also currently examining the impact of COVID-19 and the C.A.R.E.S. Act on African American workers, businesses, and communities in Virginia. Dr. Harper-Anderson serves as Vice-Chair of the Governing Board of the Urban Affairs Association. She was also appointed to the Committee on Diversity for the Association of Collegiate Schools of Planning. Prior to academia, her work included significant experience administering and evaluating economic development, workforce development, and housing programs for local, state, and federal agencies. Harper-Anderson teaches courses in economic development, labor and employment, and urban development policy. She earned her Ph.D. in City and Regional Planning from the University of California, Berkeley, an M.S. in Public Management and Policy from Carnegie Mellon University, and a B.S. in Political Science from Lincoln University of Pennsylvania.