#USA #Washington #UNA-USA #Faith Akovi Cooper #humanitarian advocate

Faith Akovi Cooper Appointed Executive Director of UNA-USA

The United Nations Association of the USA (UNA-USA) has officially announced its newest leader, Faith Akovi Cooper, who will step into the role of Executive Director. This decision marks an exciting chapter for the UNA-USA, which operates as a crucial platform for Americans engaged in supporting the mission of the United Nations.

Faith Akovi Cooper's track record speaks volumes about her dedication and the wealth of experience she brings to the position. With over twenty years spent advancing humanitarian assistance, international development, and global health initiatives in regions spanning Africa, Asia, and the Americas, Ms. Cooper is no stranger to the challenges of global citizenship. Before this pivotal role, she helmed the national community engagement strategy for the Resettlement, Asylum, and Integration unit at the International Rescue Committee, where she effectively sought to unite diverse communities and stakeholders across the United States.

Expressing her enthusiasm about leading UNA-USA, Ms. Cooper stated, "I am honored to lead UNA-USA. Building coalitions and working at the intersection of local and global issues has been my life's calling. To advocate for the UN, alongside UNA's dedicated members from coast to coast, is beyond thrilling." Her commitment to inclusivity and advocacy strongly resonates with the core objectives of UNA-USA.

Born in Liberia, Ms. Cooper's own life narrative adds a deeply personal element to her leadership journey. Fleeing the Liberian civil war as a child, she and her family spent over two years living in refugee camps throughout West Africa. During these trying times, they experienced first-hand the life-saving support provided by various UN programs. Eventually resettling in the United States, Faith's resolve to serve humanity was cemented early on.

In her own words, she reflected on how UNA-USA's mission holds special significance to her: "The UN helped my family survive, and the U.S. became our home where we recovered, integrated, and rebuilt. Advocating for the UN here in the U.S. brings my life full circle."

In addition to her new role at UNA-USA, Ms. Cooper recently took on the position of Chair of the United States Refugee Advisory Board. This dual responsibility reflects her ongoing commitment to advocating for refugees and underserved communities.

Faith holds a dual Bachelor of Arts degree, specializing in Foreign Languages (Spanish) and Criminal Justice from Radford University, in addition to a Master of Public Administration focused on Health Policy from George Mason University. A proud mother of three daughters and an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Ms. Cooper is a blend of dedication, intellect, and community spirit.

As the UNA-USA prepares to embark on this new era under Ms. Cooper's leadership, the anticipation builds among members and supporters about the innovative strategies and partnerships that could emerge. Guided by her experience and personal connection to the mission, Ms. Cooper is set to champion the cause of global cooperation and humanitarian efforts at a critical time in history.

UNA-USA serves as a grassroots movement that encourages citizens across the U.S. to engage with the vital work of the United Nations. Its members advocate for the principles of the UN Charter and promote global education, sustainable development, and initiatives aimed at building peace and security worldwide. With Faith Akovi Cooper at the helm, the association seeks not only to enhance its outreach but also to inspire a renewed commitment to humanitarian ideals, making a significant impact on communities both locally and globally.