Harper brings more than 20 years of experience in student services, including leadership roles in both faculty-based and centralized university settings. Throughout her career, she has focused on strengthening the student experience, developing integrated, future-focused support models, and helping students prepare for life beyond university.
"I am looking forward to Stephanie joining Student Affairs and anticipate that she will further strengthen the impactful programs and services at the Student Success Centre," says Sean Van Koughnett, associate vice-president, Students.
"Stephanie brings valuable insights and expertise, and her longstanding commitment to student success makes her an excellent fit to champion initiatives that support the student experience and prepare them for lives of purpose, fulfilment, and global responsibility."
Since joining McMaster in 2021 from Brock University, Harper has led the Faculty of Engineering's Centre for Career Growth & Experience through a period of significant growth and transformation, advancing a more holistic approach to career development, experiential learning, and student success, and strengthening the systems, partnerships, and team culture that support this work.
Harper will assume her duties as director on July 20, 2026.
Student Affairs thanks Arlene Fajutrao Dosen for her leadership as assistant dean and executive director of student success over the past five years, Van Koughnett says. "We wish her continued success in her appointment as associate vice-president, Alumni Engagement."
