Rose Harper

Rose is president and CEO of “The Grass Ceiling, Inc.” Established in 1995, “The Grass Ceiling” is a business empowerment firm that uses the game of golf as a platform to help level the playing-field for peer level executive women with their male counterparts in the business world. “The Grass Ceiling, Inc.” led to the development of “The Art of the Deal: Golf,” that includes workshops, seminars and speaking engagements. Rose demystifies golf and demonstrates for executives world-wide how the game is used not only to do business, but also to promote effective, high-powered human relations and achieve professional goals In addition to receiving countless awards, Rose was inducted into the National Black Golf Hall of Fame at its 25th anniversary celebration in March of 2011.

1.  The Grass Ceiling, Inc. recognizes that powerful business relationships are cultivated but remain very exclusive, even though educational and career opportunities have created a more equal and diverse portrait of American business. How can learning the game of golf level this playing field?
The most important thing about playing golf is access – access to other people. PhDs and master’s degrees don’t necessarily give you access in the corporate world. However if you have golf in your portfolio, it gives access that you can’t buy and that education cannot guarantee. Golf is one of the most effective tools for networking and deal making in today’s business world. It promotes and encourages communication and positive bonding between professionals and their peers – and that can have positive impact in many ways.

2.  How long have you been playing golf and how did you get started?
I grew up in Hyattsville, Maryland and our family moved into Washington, DC when I was about 8 years old. During elementary and high school, I worked at Harris Electric Company, located in our neighborhood for the owner’s wife, Elena, who ran the business operations. She was a wonderful woman and a mentor in my formative years. Elena was such a smart business woman and taught me everything I know about running a business and work ethics. I was actually introduced to the game during that time and Elena was a big supporter.

3.  How did Elena introduce you to the sport and encourage you?
My brothers and I played on the company’s bowling team. I was the only girl and we would bowl against other companies in the city. At the end of the bowling season, a tall, good looking young man came over to me and asked if I played golf? He told me that I should play because in the summer they don’t bowl but they golf. I didn’t know what golf was but I said sure I’ll play golf this summer!

4.  The next step must be a big one. How did you learn the game?
I went back to work and asked Elena, “What’s this game of golf?” She told me to go to East Potomac Golf Course and take some lessons. So, I did. After taking a few lessons, the golf pro told me that I had a good swing and could become a good golfer. Every day that I could, I would go either before school or after work, hit balls, and take more lessons. I was hooked on the game.

5.  When was the “ah-ha” moment for you?
Probably when I was invited to play in the UNGA (United Negro Golfer’s Association) tournament and I won – I came in first. From there, I played in more tournaments for years while I continued working. My path led me from East Potomac to the White House. I set-up golf tournaments for President Gerald Ford for 20 years, President George Bush, Secretary of Labor Bill Brock, and other people including Bob Hope – for many years.

6.  So, what happened to that tall, good-looking young man from the bowling league who really opened your eyes to golf? 
I really don’t know what happened to him!

7.  Data suggests that women and minorities are making great strides not only in business but also on the golf course.  How would you describe the way that golf helps to empower women?
I use myself as a case study.  If I didn’t play golf, how would I have access to the people I do? Golf is color-blind, has no gender, no race, no religion and no language barriers. For business people, golf is not their day job. However it is a business tool to give you access to the world. For example, you and I would not have met, if you didn’t attend my golf seminar. It is a wonderful way to meet new people, connect, build friendships and develop business relationships. 

8.  There’s a lot I wouldn’t know about golf, if I didn’t attend your seminar. If someone wants to organize a business group to participate in one of your workshops, what are the basics they would learn? 
First, the workshops are accredited at the college level so what I teach you is the business of the game. The workshops offer hands-on information regarding golf’s basic concepts and its culture, equipment, rules of the game, protocols, strategies, and how to blend play and negotiation. I share everything from how to dress and present yourself on the golf course to customized programs to meet your group’s specific needs and interest. It’s why I call these programs, the “Art of the Deal:  Golf.” 

9.  In addition to the workshops, you offer five services to assist individuals in learning the game of golf and using it in the business world. What are those services:
-  Leadership
-  Professional Leadership Development
-  University Lectures
-  Executive Coaching
-  Executive Peer Level
Descriptions and more information is available on Rose’s website: 
www.thegrassceiling.com

10.  What overall advice will you share from your experiences to professional women at all levels within Washington DC?
Get into the game and remember: YOU are in charge.