Taikein Cooper is a dreamer, dedicated to creating a world where every student has the resources and opportunities to achieve their full potential. In 2017, he co-founded Virginia Excels, a nonprofit committed to removing barriers to academic success and promoting educational equity across Virginia. His visionary leadership was instrumental in driving Virginia Excels’ growth, enabling innovative solutions that address educational challenges and foster positive student outcomes.

Guided by an entrepreneurial spirit, Taikein has revitalized and scaled organizations throughout his career, blending bold ideas with practical action. He couples a talent for program expansion and rapid revenue growth with a commitment to building high-performance, collaborative cultures. Known for his strategic acumen and dedication to relationship-building, Taikein has facilitated impactful policy dialogues, strengthened community partnerships, and laid the groundwork for sustainable social impact.

Outside of his professional pursuits, Taikein enjoys golfing, bass fishing, and supporting his favorite sports teams. He’s an avid explorer of Richmond’s vibrant restaurant scene and finds joy in connecting with his community. Taikein holds an Associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Southside Virginia Community College and a Bachelor’s in Public Policy Analysis from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.