Dr. Madison Harper, PhD

Dr. Madison Harper is a leading scholar and practitioner in the field of Gender & Identity, specializing in LGBTQ+ studies, social justice, and inclusivity education. With over 12 years of experience, Dr. Harper has dedicated their career to research, curriculum development, and public advocacy aimed at fostering understanding of gender diversity and identity across communities. Their work combines rigorous academic research with hands-on educational initiatives, making complex topics accessible to diverse audiences.

Specialization

Gender & Sexuality Studies
LGBTQ+ Rights and Education
Identity Formation and Social Psychology
Intersectionality and Social Justice
Inclusive Curriculum Design

Education

2005–2009: B.A. in Sociology, University of California, Berkeley
2009–2011: M.A. in Gender Studies, New York University
2011–2015: PhD in Gender & Identity Studies, Columbia University

Professional Experience

2015–2017: Gender & Inclusion Specialist, Human Rights Campaign
2017–2020: Assistant Professor of Gender Studies, University of Chicago
2020–Present: Director of Gender & Identity Programs, Center for Social Equity
Consultant for multiple NGOs on LGBTQ+ inclusion in schools and workplaces

Selected Scientific Publications

Harper, M. (2022). "Inclusive Education for Gender-Diverse Youth." Journal of Gender and Society, 36(2), 150–172.
Harper, M., & Nguyen, L. (2020). "Intersectionality in Identity Formation: A Multicultural Perspective." Social Psychology Review, 12(4), 88–107.
Harper, M. (2018). "Navigating Nonbinary Identities in Education." International Journal of Gender Studies, 9(3), 45–66.

Professional Memberships

American Sociological Association (ASA) – Section on Gender
National LGBTQ+ Task Force
International Association for Gender Studies

Participation in International Projects

Lead Consultant, UNESCO "Global Gender and Inclusion in Education" (2021–2023)
Advisor, UNDP "Empowering LGBTQ+ Communities in Asia and Africa" (2019–2021)
Project Director, International NGO "Gender Equality in Schools" (2020–Present)

Work on Educational Programs

Developer of "Understanding Gender Diversity" online modules for secondary and university students
Creator of workshops on LGBTQ+ inclusivity for educators and corporate environments
Curriculum design consultant for multicultural gender studies programs

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

Guest speaker on NPR: "Gender Diversity in Education"
TEDx Talk: "Redefining Identity in the 21st Century" (2022)
Regular contributor to the "Gender Matters" podcast

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Harper brings a rare combination of academic rigor, cross-cultural experience, and advocacy expertise. Their work emphasizes intersectional understanding, practical inclusivity strategies, and evidence-based approaches to gender education, helping individuals and institutions navigate complex social identities with respect and empathy.