Jim Harper

Jim C. Harper II is a native of Mount Olive, North Carolina and currently serves as the Interim Associate Dean for the School of Graduate Studies at North Carolina Central University (NCCU). In this role, he oversees retention, student development programs, student records management, thesis submissions, and the Graduate Students Association. 

Prior to his current role, Jim served as Chair and Professor of History at NCCU. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in strengthening the department’s academic programs, student success, faculty professional development, and enhancing the reputation for excellence. Through his leadership experiences he understands the value of expanding access to higher education to all students to educate the next generation of leaders, and change makers.

Jim’s research interests include African American and African education and independence movements in the 20th century. He has numerous publications including journal articles, book chapters, books, and community-engaged Public history research projects. 

In addition to his academic and administrative duties, he is an active scholar and has published books, articles and book chapters on his research interests in African, African Diaspora, African American history, United States, and Public history. He is also a frequent presenter at conferences.

Jim is an active member of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History as well as the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

After his service in the United States Marine Corps, he earned his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees from North Carolina Central University and Ph.D. from Howard University.