Maudine Cooper (Finding Aid)

Maudine Cooper

1941 -

Favorite Color: Red

Favorite Food: Soul Food

Favorite Time of Year: Summer

Favorite Vacation Spot: St. Maartens

Interview Length: 144 minutes

Interview Date(s): June 22, 2001

Interview Location(s): Washington, D.C.

Abstract

Urban League executive Maudine Cooper discusses her family background and her childhood growing up in Mississippi. Cooper describes both her mother and father, explaining that while they were not formally educated, she grew up in an environment emphasizing refined speech and education. Cooper also recounts a major transition in her life, when she moved from Mississippi to Minnesota. Urban League executive Maudine Cooper discusses her time at Howard University, citing her experiences there as having a profound influence on her life. Cooper recounts her application process, her difficult first semester, and Howard's social and academic climates. Cooper also shares her general concerns about Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and remembers the decision-making process that led her to law school at Howard. Urban League executive Maudine Cooper discusses her law school experience and details her time working for the National Urban League and in the administration of Washington, D.C. Mayor Marion Barry. Cooper describes her major accomplishments working at the Urban League, and talks about the positive influences of Ron Brown and Vernon Jordan on the organization. Cooper then explains why she left the Urban League to work for Mayor Barry. Urban League executive Maudine Cooper discusses her time working for the city of Washington, D.C. under Mayor Marion Barry. Cooper describes her duties and accomplishments as the head Washington's Office of Human Rights and Minority Business Opportunity Commission, positions she held simultaneously. After this, Cooper describes her experience as the Chief of Staff for Barry during his tumultuous third term, when he was arrested and incarcerated. Urban League executive Maudine Cooper discusses her transition from the Marion Barry administration back to the Urban League, becoming president and CEO of the Greater Washington branch. Cooper explains how she helped the Urban League adapt to a new climate of civil rights and discusses the skills needed to prevent bad publicity from infecting the League. Cooper then reflects on her life and career, and describes a series of photos depicting her life, family, and career. Urban League executive Maudine Cooper describes a series of photos depicting her life, family, and career.

56 Stories (See Ordered Story Set)