Gary Harper reappointed to the Michigan State Board of Psychology

Gary Harper

This will be Harper’s second term

January 29, 2024

Last week, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer reappointed Gary Harper, professor of Health Behavior and Health Education at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, to the Michigan Board of Psychology where he has served as Vice-Chair since 2020. This is his second three-year term which lasts until December 31, 2027. 

Harper was initially selected by the governor’s office given his extensive work as an advocate for the mental health and human rights of LGBTQ+ youth, and as a national leader in efforts to ban sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) change efforts for LGBTQ+ youth, also known as “conversion therapy.” His research and community work focus on the mental health and sexual health needs of adolescents and young adults who experience varying degrees of oppression and marginalization, especially Black gay/bisexual young men, transgender and non-binary youth, and youth living with HIV.

“As a member of the Michigan Board of Psychology, I can assure that public health policies and regulations related to mental health service delivery are being informed by scientific data and the lived experiences of those experiencing mental health challenges,” said Harper. “I also think that my visibility as an openly gay man who was appointed by the Governor to serve on the board is critical, especially during a time in US history when we have the largest number of anti-LGBTQ+ bills and laws in the history of our country.”

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