College of Business Alumnus Establishes Scholarship Endowment to Honor Fellow Family Alumni

Cooper established the endowment to honor himself, his sister and his dad who all graduated from the College of Business.

“Our family has seen first-hand the difference a college degree can make in a person’s life,” said Cooper. “My educational journey in the College of Business did not always travel in a straight line, but certain people and events were key to helping me reach the finish line. My hope is this endowment will play a small part in helping current and future students complete their own unique educational journey.” 

Cooper is a Pocatello native who earned two degrees from the Idaho State University College of Business. He completed his undergraduate degree in Finance in 1989 and earned his MBA in 1991. Following his education at Idaho State, Cooper embarked on a 30+ year career in banking, most recently serving as President and CEO of Idaho First Bank since 2021. In addition to his success in banking, Cooper is an active community member and alumnus and serves on several boards including the Boys and Girls Clubs of Ada County and the Idaho State University College of Business Leadership Board. 

"We are thrilled for this new endowment from the Cooper family and for the difference it will make in the lives of students for generations to come," said College of Business Senior Director of Development Catherine Rider.

To learn more about how to support the College of Business, visit isu.edu/cob/donors.