Dr. Alushus Cooper is a 2009 and 2014 graduate of Mississippi State University earning her bachelor’s in communications and master’s in public policy and administration. She earned her Ph.D. from Jackson State University in 2021. Dr. Cooper has spent the last 12 years working in the public sector in various capacities. Currently, Dr. Cooper works for the MS State Department of Health in the Center for Rural Health and Population Studies as the Director of the Office of Rural Health. During her time with this agency, she has worked as an Emergency Planner for the Office of Emergency Planning & Response and as a Grant Coordinator for the Office of Rural Health. She has been recognized for her dedication as a team lead for COVID testing and vaccine administration during the pandemic. Dr. Cooper has a passion for policy and planning and hopes to continue making a difference in rural Mississippi. Additionally, Dr. Cooper serves on Mississippi State's Black Alumni Weekend Planning Committee and as a mentor for the Bulldog Mentoring Program.
Dr. Cooper resides in the tri-county metropolitan area with her husband, Derrick and their twin sons, Colton & Cruz.