“After over 46 years in leadership with the BBA, I feel now is the time for new leadership to oversee the organization’s day-to-day operations,” said Cooper.
“It is and always will be a true commitment and my special purpose in life of serving African Americans and business owners, in addition to others.
“I look forward to assisting the Board in whatever way I can with the transition to building a stronger organization with the commitment to service young African Americans entrepreneurs because they are our future,” stated the veteran community leader, who will transition to president emeritus and chairman of the BBA Board.
“In addition, it is my intention to offer all support to the incoming Interim President Sarah R. Harris in a way that affords her the opportunity to lead without encumbrances. From over 20 years of working with and knowing Ms. Harris, I have personally witnessed her demonstrate a strong commitment to the BBA, which makes me confident in supporting this transition,” added Cooper.
Harris, the publisher of Suite Life SoCal magazine, is a longtime BBA advocate who has worked closely with Cooper for several years. Also, BBA board members indicated full support of Harris and expressed confidence that she will help usher in the new era of the Black Business Association in a way that both honors what the previous leadership built and makes room for the next phase the organization’s evolution.
Regarding her appointment, Harris said, “Having worked with Mr. Cooper for more than two decades and embracing the same passion for seeing Black and minority-owned businesses flourish, it is my honor to be entrusted with helping to shape the next chapter of the BBA to realize its full potential and engage with a new generation of business owners.
“Having the support of the Board and a host of community leaders fills me with an immense amount of gratitude. I am definitely ready to get to work to deliver some amazingly innovative programs and to be a formidable advocate leader for more equitable opportunities for minority and women small business owners.”
On Thursday, February 24, the BBA Board will host a tribute reception to salute Cooper for his lifetime of work that he calls his “special purpose” in being of service to others. The event will include the 2022-2023 Board of Directors Installation Ceremony.
For more information or details regarding the BBA’s Tribute Reception, visit the BBA’s website at www.bbala.org or email [email protected].
