Rachel Harper

Dr. Rachel Harper serves as Associate Dean of the Honors College and Associate Teaching Professor in the Department of English at the University of Missouri, where she has taught since 1996 and coordinated the Honors Humanities Sequence since 1998. She also co-directs the Missouri Scholars Academy and previously led MU's Writing Center for a decade.

Her academic background includes:

• Ph.D. in American Literature from the University of Missouri
• B.A. in English and Spanish from Illinois Wesleyan University

Her research focuses on American literary traditions and humanities pedagogy, with significant contributions to writing instruction through her decade-long leadership of MU's Writing Center. This work intersects with her current role in shaping honors curricula that emphasize critical analysis and interdisciplinary scholarship.

Her exceptional teaching has been recognized through:

• William T. Kemper Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching
• Purple Chalk Award for classroom innovation
• Alumni Association Faculty Award for service

As Associate Dean, she oversees honors program development while maintaining active teaching responsibilities. Her leadership extends to the Missouri Scholars Academy, where she mentors high-achieving pre-college students, and continues her commitment to writing pedagogy that supports student success across academic disciplines.