What is the Cooperman Memorial Scholarship?
The Michael Evan Cooperman Memorial Scholarship was established in 2001 and is designated to assist undergraduate students of financial need from the greater New York City area, State of New York, or a state other than Michigan who are pursuing business careers through courses of study at the Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan. This scholarship was established by friends, family, and former colleagues of the late Michael Evan Cooperman, AB ’94, as both a tribute and a legacy. The Michael Evan Cooperman Memorial Scholarship will touch the lives of students in need, and continue Michael’s way of “being there” to lend support and encourage excellence.
Who was Michael Cooperman?
Michael Evan Cooperman grew up within a loving and supportive family whose values, centered in education, achievement and social responsibility, shaped Michael’s personal and professional life. He distinguished himself in an energetic pursuit of academics and intellectual involvement, as well as athletics and community service. In 1990, Michael was accepted for admission to the University of Michigan, an event that led to several of his happiest years. He took challenging courses, worked and engaged with students from different cultures, experienced life on his own and, with a passion for finance and economics, prepared for a future business career.
During his junior year at Michigan, Michael decided to pursue a career as a financial consultant with a brokerage firm. He held a summer internship at Rooney, Inc., and during his senior year applied for a position with Merrill Lynch in New York City. After graduation, he entered Merrill Lynch's two-year training program, completing the program in only 17 months. Michael was given rapid promotions and achieved quick career success at Merrill, being appointed assistant vice president (March 1999) and vice president, shortly before his untimely death in February 2000.