We are proud to spotlight Patrick Cooper, a dedicated and inspiring member of the Millsaps College Class of 1994. With a passion for education and student development, Patrick currently serves as the Director of Residence Life and Title IX Coordinator, where he continues to impact students’ lives every day.
Patrick majored in education at Millsaps—a field he was drawn to through his early experiences as a camp counselor and a volunteer at the Audubon Zoo. These roles sparked a love for working with young people and guiding their growth, setting him on a lifelong path in education.
His college years were filled with meaningful involvement in campus life. Patrick served as a resident assistant during his junior and senior years, was a cheerleader and contributed to the Purple and White newspaper. These experiences helped shape his leadership skills and taught him the importance of building community.
One of his most impactful experiences came during a reading internship at Pecan Park Elementary School in his junior year. His time there, working with students twice a week and presenting the program to school administrators, left a lasting mark, so much so that he went on to teach there for five years. A touching full-circle moment occurred when he reunited with one of his former fourth-grade students who later attended Millsaps.
Patrick’s first job after graduation was teaching at Cone Park Elementary School, an opportunity he credits to the strong mentorship and support he received from his Millsaps faculty. Their guidance laid a solid foundation for his teaching career.
Since graduation, Patrick has remained firmly rooted in education. His time as a resident assistant was transformational, helping him step out of his introverted shell and learn vital communication and leadership skills. Through RA workshops and real-world interactions, he learned to be quick on his feet, adaptable and deeply empathetic—skills that have served him throughout his career.
The most valuable lessons from his Millsaps education? Patrick emphasizes communication, flexibility, active listening and cultural awareness—all crucial to working effectively with diverse audiences and navigating the ever-changing landscape of student affairs.
His advice to current students is simple yet powerful: “Get involved.” He encourages students to build meaningful relationships with faculty, staff, and alumni, find their voice, and pursue their passion. For Patrick, the joy of seeing the students he works with succeed is one of the most fulfilling aspects of his career.
Patrick also highlights the importance of professional development through conferences, webinars and networking events, which have kept him informed and connected throughout his journey.
Millsaps College was instrumental in preparing Patrick for a successful career—both inside and outside the classroom. The academic and co-curricular programs helped him become a leader, communicator and compassionate educator, ready to meet students where they are and help them thrive.
Since 2019, Patrick has stayed actively involved with the Millsaps alumni network, cherishing the friendships and supportive community he found during his college years.
Among his proudest accomplishments is his ability to train and mentor students as Dean of Residential Life—watching them grow, develop and ultimately succeed in their own journeys.
We are honored to celebrate Patrick Cooper as a dedicated Millsaps alumnus and a passionate leader in education. His story is a testament to the lasting impact of the Millsaps experience and the power of investing in people.