Vice President of Learning & Engagement,
Weeksville Heritage Center

Erica Harper is currently the Vice President of Learning and Engagement at Weeksville Heritage Center in Brooklyn, NY. In her role, she is responsible for the vision, strategy, and implementation of both the education and programming departments. Previously Erica served as Head of PK12 Initiatives at The Phillips Collection, a museum of modern and contemporary art in Washington, DC where she provided vision and strategy for the museum’s school partnerships. Central to her work was ensuring that these programs were culturally responsive and supported diversity, equity, access, and inclusion. She managed Phillips’ team of educators who provide engaging experiences across museum audiences – including students, families, and older adults. Her passion for education was deepened during her decade-long tenure at a local DC non-profit called “Live It Learn It,” which focused on experiential learning. There she developed an intimate understanding of the DC educational landscape, particularly its schools, museums, and monuments. She also cultivated partnerships and relationships with professionals locally, regionally, and nationally. Erica received her bachelor’s degree in sociology from Duke University in 2005 and was raised in Memphis, Tennessee. Her favorite author is Toni Morrison and she is an August-born Virgo sun.