20 Facts About Roy Cooper

Early Life and Education

Roy Cooper's journey to becoming a prominent political figure began with his early life and education. Here are some interesting facts about his formative years.

1. Born on June 13, 1957, in Nash County, North Carolina, Roy Cooper grew up in a rural setting.
2. His parents, Roy Asberry Cooper Jr. and Beverly Thorne Cooper, were both educators, which influenced his commitment to public service.
3. Cooper attended Northern Nash High School, where he excelled academically and was active in various extracurricular activities.
4. He earned a Morehead Scholarship to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, one of the most prestigious scholarships in the state.
5. At UNC, he majored in political science and was a member of the Phi Beta Kappa honor society.
6. Cooper went on to earn his Juris Doctor degree from the University of North Carolina School of Law.

Early Career

Before stepping into the political arena, Roy Cooper had a successful career in law. His early professional life laid the groundwork for his future in politics.

7. After law school, Cooper joined his family's law firm, Fields & Cooper, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina.
8. He specialized in insurance defense and personal injury law, gaining significant experience in the legal field.
9. Cooper served as a Sunday school teacher and deacon at his local church, reflecting his strong community ties.
10. In 1986, he was elected to the North Carolina House of Representatives, marking the beginning of his political career.

Political Career

Roy Cooper's political career has been marked by various significant roles and achievements. Here are some key facts about his journey in politics.

11. Cooper served in the North Carolina House of Representatives from 1987 to 1991.
12. He was then elected to the North Carolina Senate, where he served from 1991 to 2001.
13. In 2000, Cooper was elected as the Attorney General of North Carolina, a position he held for four consecutive terms.
14. As Attorney General, he focused on consumer protection, combating crime, and improving public safety.
15. In 2016, Cooper ran for Governor of North Carolina and won, defeating the incumbent Pat McCrory.
16. He was re-elected as Governor in 2020, demonstrating his continued popularity and effectiveness as a leader.

Personal Life

Beyond his professional achievements, Roy Cooper has a rich personal life that reflects his values and commitments.

17. Cooper is married to Kristin Bernhardt Cooper, who is also a lawyer and a strong advocate for children's issues.
18. The couple has three daughters: Hilary, Natalie, and Claire, who have all pursued higher education.
19. An avid outdoorsman, Cooper enjoys activities like hiking, fishing, and running.
20. He is a fan of North Carolina sports teams, particularly the UNC Tar Heels, reflecting his deep-rooted connection to his alma mater.

Roy Cooper: A Leader with Impact

Roy Cooper's journey from a small-town lawyer to North Carolina's governor showcases his dedication to public service. His efforts in education, healthcare, and disaster response highlight his commitment to improving lives. Cooper's focus on renewable energy and environmental protection reflects his forward-thinking approach. His leadership during crises, like hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic, has been crucial for the state.

Cooper's ability to work across party lines has earned him respect from both sides of the aisle. His advocacy for equal rights and justice underscores his belief in a fair society. As governor, Cooper continues to push for progress and innovation, ensuring North Carolina remains a great place to live and work. His story is a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication in making a difference.