The department was thrilled to welcome Kristi Cooper as the new Band and Facilities Administrator this past July! In this unique dual role, Cooper helps with administrative tasks for the Marching Tar Heels and department facilities. This includes work on marching band financials, food, and merchandising, as well as department scheduling and access to classrooms, practice rooms, buildings, and lockers for the faculty, staff, students, and guests.
Before Cooper and her son moved here in July, she taught K-8 Music in Colorado, so she’s no stranger to the music education life! As an accomplished musician, Cooper is a skilled vocalist who plays piano, guitar, bass, percussion, and clarinet. She also gives lessons, coaches students, and is the Worship Director for Love Chapel Hill.
“I wanted to continue working in music education,” she noted. “This position gave me the opportunity to become part of the Tar Heel community, continue to share my love for all things music, and serve with Love Chapel Hill.”
Colorado to North Carolina may seem like a big jump, but Cooper says that the transition has been smoother than she could have ever expected with Chapel Hill immediately feeling like home. “My son and I felt called to serve the community by using our musical gifts to give to others,” she recounted. “The opportunity to work at UNC Chapel Hill was part of the realization of that dream.”
Outside of Music, Cooper enjoys exploring the outdoors, paddle boarding, hiking, camping, crafting, and spending time friends, family, her son Zac, daughter Haley, and their dog Buddy. “One fun fact is I love llamas, history, and dancing!”
Stop by Cooper’s office in Hill Hall 106, M-F between 10 am and 3 pm, to say hi!