After more than five years with the Charter Schools Office, Don
Cooper, assistant vice president for Charter Schools, has accepted a
new position outside of the university.
Under Cooper’s guidance and leadership, the CSO achieved several key
target areas in improving educational opportunities for students:
Strengthening the CSO's core authorizing functions, including the
implementation of a best-in-class renewal process.
Formalizing the CSO's research and publishing agenda.
Expanding the CSO's portfolio into Traverse City, re-engaging
with cyber charter schools and growing early/middle college programs.
Achieving a record number of charter alumni matriculating to the
university to continue their education.
A national search will begin to fill Cooper’s role. Rob Kimball,
associate vice president and executive associate to the president,
will serve as the office’s interim director. Kimball led the CSO from 2017-2021.
Opportunities to participate in Juneteenth, Pride Month and the Black Boys and Men Symposium strengthen our commitment to an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere through our active efforts to create a sense of belonging.