Montana Tech's Joe Cooper named 2027 ACPA Diamond Honoree
Montana Technological University Vice Provost for Student Success and Dean of Students Dr. Joe Cooper has been named a 2027 Diamond Honoree by the ACPA Foundation in recognition of his outstanding contributions to higher education and student affairs.
“I’m incredibly grateful to Montana Tech for the support and encouragement it has provided throughout my professional journey,” Cooper said. “Being part of an institution that values professional growth, leadership development, and service has allowed me to continue enhancing my own leadership while remaining actively engaged in the broader student affairs profession. I’ve been fortunate to work alongside inspiring colleagues and to have opportunities to contribute to a profession that has given me so much throughout my career. This recognition is meaningful to me, and I’m so grateful to Montana Tech for being part of that journey.”
The Diamond Honoree program recognizes student affairs professionals who have made significant and sustained contributions to the profession. The program also raises funds to support research, scholarship and professional development initiatives through the ACPA Foundation, which supports the American College Personnel Association (ACPA).
Cooper has more than 20 years of experience in higher education, including the past three years at Montana Tech, where he oversees Student Affairs and leads initiatives focused on student success, retention, well-being and institutional effectiveness.
Before joining Montana Tech, Cooper spent 12 years at Michigan Technological University, serving in several leadership positions, including roles in residence life, student activities, student financial services, Title IX coordination and emergency management. He also served as interim vice president for Student Affairs and dean of students.
In addition to his work on college campuses, Cooper has been an active member of ACPA for 15 years, contributing through leadership, presentations, mentoring and professional service. He previously served as a trustee and secretary of the ACPA Foundation and currently serves as ACPA's vice president for operations-elect. He also chaired the association's Commission for Campus Safety and Emergency Preparedness.
Throughout his career, Cooper has emphasized empathy, authenticity and service in his leadership, with a commitment to developing future leaders and creating environments where students and colleagues can thrive.
Cooper earned a doctorate in educational leadership from Edgewood College, a master's degree in student affairs administration from South Dakota State University and a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Northern Michigan University.
The ACPA Foundation's Diamond Honoree program provides an opportunity for colleagues, friends and community members to recognize Cooper's contributions while supporting the future of the student affairs profession.
To learn more about Cooper and the other 2027 Diamond Honorees, visit the ACPA Foundation website.