Dr. Walter Cooper was awarded the second-ever Cornerstone Award at the NCS4 15th Annual National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition Award Luncheon, sponsored by Evolv Technology.
The Cornerstone Award recognizes individuals who have played an integral role in the foundation of the NCS4 and/or provided leadership in the development and growth of NCS4 programs.
“Walter is one of the original founders of NCS4 and its training program,” said Dr. Stacey Hall, NCS4 executive director and professor of sport management. “He helped write the first grant the Center was awarded from FEMA to develop risk management training for college safety and security teams, and he served as the Center’s first-ever director of training. Walter exemplified all the qualities of a servant leader and humble leader. We thank him for advocating for the Center since its inception. He undoubtedly played an impactful role in where the Center stands today.”
Cooper has held many leadership positions during his decades of service in higher education, such as professor, department chair and dean. A professor emeritus at the University of Southern Mississippi, Cooper was the NCS4 director of training during the center’s formative years, playing an integral role in the creation of NCS4 and the growth of its training program. Cooper currently serves as the director of the Interscholastic Athletics Administration Program at William Carey University, which he developed in 2014. He continues to consult with public and private sector industries on quality management training.
“I was quite surprised, honored, and appreciative to receive this award,” said Cooper. “It’s an honor to have been a part of the formative years of NCS4. I’m very proud of the work that our team, including Ret. FBI Agent Jim McGee did to help lay the foundation for what NCS4 is today under the leadership of Dr. Stacey Hall and Lauren Cranford, both of whom I am very appreciative.”
