Update [03/12/2021]: Michelle Asha Cooper has been appointed the deputy assistant secretary for higher education programs in the Office of Postsecondary Education at the U.S. Department of Education.

Michelle Asha Cooper is the president of the Institute for Higher Education Policy (IHEP), one of the nation’s most effective voices in championing access and success for all students in postsecondary education. Cooper is recognized as a well-respected practitioner, researcher, and policy advocate, helping to reaffirm IHEP’s role of ensuring equal educational opportunities for all students. Cooper has raised millions to create and maintain IHEP’s strong partnerships with national and international leaders from the postsecondary, policy, philanthropic, business, and civic communities.

Prior to joining IHEP, Dr. Cooper held various leadership positions at the Advisory Committee on Student Financial Assistance a the U.S. Department of Education, Association of American Colleges and Universities, Council for Independent Colleges, and King’s College.

President, Institute of Higher Education Policy (IHEP)

Areas of Expertise: Higher Education Access and Equity, Student Loans, Federal and State Policies Regarding Postsecondary Education

Location: Washington, DC

Contact Information:
Email: president@ihep.org

Heard on NPR’s Morning Edition: College Students Hide Hunger, Homelessness

Added July 2015