Meet Yvonne Harper

About Yvonne Harper

Yvonne Harper is a public policy strategist, government affairs professional, speaker, and community leader dedicated to building stronger communities through service, education, and civic engagement. Born and raised in District 10 in Reisterstown, Yvonne Harper is a graduate of the University of Baltimore School. She completed in Miss Maryland USA 2013, was featured in the Maryland Daily Record's 40 Under 40 and has built a long term career in public service. Yvonne supports and stands for small businesses, minority businesses, and veteran businesses — championing equitable economic opportunity throughout her career.

Born and raised in Baltimore County's District 10, Yvonne has spent her career working at the intersection of government, policy, communications, and public service. Her work has focused on helping organizations navigate complex public policy challenges, building partnerships across sectors, and creating opportunities that improve the lives of Maryland residents.

Throughout her career, Yvonne has advised executive leaders, legislators, nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and advocacy groups on policy development, legislative strategy, stakeholder engagement, and public affairs. Her experience spans education policy, government relations, legislative advocacy, strategic communications, coalition building, and organizational leadership.

Yvonne currently serves in the Maryland State Department of Education, where she supports legislative and government affairs initiatives that strengthen Maryland's education system and help connect policy decisions to real outcomes for students, families, educators, and communities.

Prior to her work in education policy, Yvonne served as a Policy Advisor for the Maryland Department of General Services and as a registered lobbyist representing organizations across healthcare, education, social justice, and human services. Her clients have included statewide professional associations, advocacy organizations, and community-based nonprofits working to advance meaningful policy change.

A graduate of the University of Baltimore, Yvonne has long been committed to leadership and public service. She previously served as President of the University System of Maryland Student Council, representing students across Maryland's public colleges and universities while working closely with university presidents, the Board of Regents, legislators, and state leaders.

Her leadership and service have earned statewide recognition, including being named one of The Daily Record's Leading Women Under 40. She is also a graduate of Emerge Maryland, where she received training in public leadership, campaign strategy, and civic engagement.

Beyond her professional work, Yvonne is passionate about mentoring future leaders, strengthening civic participation, supporting small businesses, and creating pathways for women and underrepresented communities to lead. She believes that education, opportunity, and service remain some of the most powerful tools for transforming lives and communities.

Whether advocating for policy solutions, speaking to audiences, mentoring emerging leaders, or serving her community, Yvonne is guided by a simple belief: meaningful change happens when people come together with purpose, vision, and a commitment to serve others.