He is known for cofounding Omega Psi Phi in Washington, D.C., the first fraternity founded by students at a historically black college.

Cooper was born in Washington, D.C. in 1888[1] and attended Howard University, receiving a Bachelor's degree in 1913 and a Doctor of Medicine in 1917.

[3] On November 17, 1911, he cofounded Omega Psi Phi, a historically African-American fraternity, along with Edgar Amos Love and Frank Coleman under the mentorship of Just.

[1] He was closely involved with the founding and early years of the Pyramid Club on Girard Avenue in Cecil B. Moore, North Philadelphia,[9][10] which provided events and cultural engagement for African-American professionals in Philadelphia; at the time, racial segregation in the United States often barred professionals from access to other clubs.

He continued his role as a founder of many influential organizations including the Philadelphia Chapter of OPP, was a charter member of the Pyramid Club, and supported many Black charities.