Mia Esther Alpert is an actress, writer, producer, and nonprofit leader whose work bridges creative practice and institutional change. As a Harvard undergraduate, she recognized the lack of support for students pursuing careers in arts and the entertainment industry and responded by co-founding Harvardwood in 1999. What began as a grassroots alumni network has grown into a global organization with more than 14,000 members, providing programming, mentorship, fellowships, and professional development for alumni and students in the arts, media, and entertainment.

Through Harvardwood and her philanthropic efforts, Alpert has worked to reduce financial barriers and expand access to creative careers. This includes the Mia and David Alpert Harvardwood Artist Launch Fellowship, awarded annually, which provides a $24,000 grant and mentorship to emerging artists. Her broader nonprofit leadership includes board service with organizations supporting foster youth and educational access, reflecting a long-standing commitment to equity and opportunity.

A multiracial alumna who grew up in Indiana with family roots in Taiwan, Alpert has also been an advocate for pluralism and belonging within the Harvard community. She emphasizes the role that diversity—of identity, experience, perspective, and discipline—plays in strengthening academic inquiry and community life.

Along with her nonprofit work, Alpert has built a career acting in productions that range from independent films to television series and stage performances. Across her creative and institutional work, she has focused on opening pathways for artists and students whose voices and stories have historically been underrepresented.