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James A. Cooper Jr.

James A. Cooper Jr. is a visionary leader, impact strategist, and advocate for equity in education and workforce development. He is the Founder and CEO of James Cooper Consulting and the B.E.S.T. Young Male Enrichment Program, a Minnesota-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering young Black men to succeed in school, career, and life. A proud Liberian immigrant and first-generation college graduate, James blends lived experience with professional expertise to expand pathways to college access, career readiness, and systems change for historically marginalized communities. Grounded in the belief that success is meant to be shared, his work continues to create meaningful opportunities that help individuals and communities thrive.