Meet Emily Cooper '25: Project Coordinator for Student Engagement and Leadership Development

By Sinead Quinn

Changes in the Campus Life Department include the addition of the role of Project Coordinator for Student Engagement and Leadership Development. Emily Cooper ‘25 (Communication Studies and Gender and Women’s Studies, Political Science and Critical Studies of Race and Ethnicity minors), is “excited to be back on campus” in the faculty position. This has been an opportunity, said Cooper, to see “the university from a whole new perspective.”

Cooper hopes that her St. Kate’s background will lend her a unique edge for interacting with students, especially those who are involved in clubs and organizations. “Since my position is new to the department, there may be some changes as we figure out how I can best support the Campus Life Team and the St. Kate’s community,” Cooper explained. So far, she has been heavily involved in supporting the Information Center and Campus Life Desks, CFW Clubs and Organizations and helping the advisory boards for the College for Adults and Graduate Students.

Cooper believes that her St. Kate’s academic experiences also contribute to her current role. “I think about my experience as a faculty member, a former student, and a student worker,” Cooper said, adding that “St. Kate’s also taught me what empowerment looks like in different forms–how to speak up in certain spaces, but also when to stop, listen, reflect and adapt.” Having worked with her as both a student worker and now a faculty member, Cooper commends Ellen Bakke, Assistant Director of Student Center and Activities, for giving her “tremendous support” and mentorship. 

As the Campus Life Department develops, Cooper looks forward to making “positive change.” “We’re striving to make things more seamless for students, club members, advisors and student workers,” said Cooper. “One program we’re revamping is the club reimbursement process,” she added. Where before student clubs needed to purchase their own materials and then follow through with a lengthy reimbursement process, the revision involves a Purchase Request Form and clubs being able to make purchases directly through the Campus Life Office.

If you have questions about Campus Life, Cooper’s role, or the Clubs and Orgs Purchase Request Process, you can contact her via email: emcooper954@stkate.edu, via phone: (612) 321-8836, or schedule an appointment through her Google Calendar.