Elise Harper

Elise serves as the Finance and Operations Coordinator, overseeing key operational functions, including fundraising support, donor engagement, administration, and compliance activities. She brings a background in strategy consulting and community leadership. With a strong analytical approach, Elise is passionate about strengthening organizations that serve children and families and believes effective leadership can create lasting impact in local communities. Through her professional experience and volunteer service, Elise has helped organizations clarify their strategies, strengthen governance, and effectively advance their missions.

Elise began her career at McKinsey & Company, where she advised a wide range of companies on strategic planning and organizational challenges in the firm’s Dallas and London offices. She also supported mission-driven organizations through special project work with the Center for Community Self-Help and the National Math and Science Initiative, contributing to initiatives focused on economic opportunity and educational outcomes.

Today, Elise is actively involved in serving her community while raising her three sons. She has served in multiple leadership roles on The Covenant School Board, including Secretary, Chair of the Head of School Search Committee, and two terms as Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee. For many years, she has also served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer and taught English as a Second Language through Park Cities Presbyterian Church, reflecting her deep commitment to supporting children, families, and her broader community.

Elise holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Wake Forest University, where she graduated with Greatest Academic Distinction, and a Master of Business Administration from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.