Tyson Cooper

During his time at Southern Virginia University, Tyson Cooper has worked to build and improve financial systems that increase efficiency and provide excellent customer service.

Prior to his role as vice president of financial operations, Cooper served as the vice president of financial operations from 2020–21, where he successfully guided Southern Virginia through challenges presented by the pandemic. He secured funds that enabled the University to thrive  without the need for major layoffs or reductions in employee benefits. He also led the distribution of 2.2 million federal stimulus monies to aid students who faced financial hardships due to the pandemic.

At Southern Virginia University, Cooper has also served as executive director of financial aid and housing and as the associate director of human resources. Cooper has presented at more than a dozen national financial conferences across the country and has served on several advisory boards for the National Association of College and University Business Officers (NACUBO).

In addition to his work at Southern Virginia University, Cooper is an active community member in the City of Buena Vista where he has served on the city council since 2017 including a stint as vice mayor from 2018-19. Cooper is also the co-owner of a small business in Buena Vista.

An alumnus of Southern Virginia University, Cooper earned his bachelor’s degree in history in 2007 and a master’s degree in management and leadership from Liberty University in 2011. He is also a certified management accountant.

Cooper served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Brazil Recife Mission. He and his wife Camden live in Buena Vista with their six children.

B.A., Southern Virginia University, M.A., Liberty University, CMA Certification