The American Bankers Association (ABA) has hired Jasmine Cooper as its new vice president of internal diversity, equity and inclusion.
Cooper joins Naomi Mercer, ABA’s senior vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion. While Mercer’s primary focus is ABA’s external efforts, Cooper will be responsible for internal diversity, equity, and inclusion strategy and will advise ABA management as a subject matter expert. Cooper will also be helping internal diversity-related programs, training, and education for ABA employees. One of ABA’s goals in hiring Cooper is to enhance its commitment to expand its diversity, equity and inclusion program.
“I’m excited by this opportunity to build on the important DEI work already underway at ABA,” Cooper said in a release. “As we continue to expand our internal DEI program, we will be in a better position to help our members meet their goals.”
Cooper received her bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Maryland. Cooper also worked as a program management specialist of external relations at the university and developed its nationally recognized diversity strategic plan for its Clark School of Engineering.
In addition, she also worked as an operations manager for Many Voices, a Black church movement for gay and transgender justice, and as a senior manager of diversity, inclusion and corporate social responsibility for Steptoe & Johnson LLP.
“We believe in a diverse and inclusive workplace with a staff that is representative of the customers, clients and communities that our nation’s banks serve,” ABA President and CEO Rob Nichols said. “Jasmine’s expertise will help elevate our efforts to achieve best-in-class diversity, equity and inclusion practices as we continue to provide resources to guide and encourage our members’ DEI initiatives.”