What is it like to live, work, and play in the Roanoke Region of Virginia? See it through the eyes of some of the region’s young professionals in their own words.
Libba Cooper is the Events Coordinator for the Taubman Museum of Art, where she plans annual fundraisers and internal events for the Museum. “Working for a nonprofit I get to dabble in many different areas,” she said.
Libba grew up in Winston-Salem, NC, and fell in love with the region as a student at Roanoke College.
5 Questions with Libba Cooper
How long have you lived in the Roanoke Region?
For almost 10 years I have lived in the Roanoke Region and have seen the area change and grow immensely. I am constantly discovering new places I haven’t explored and meeting professionals that are incredibly inspiring.
What brought you here?
I moved to this area to attend Roanoke College and I ended up staying because I realized that I had the most connections here. I wasn’t sure that I would stay here long after graduation, but I am proud to call Roanoke my home.
What’s your favorite part about living in the Roanoke Region?
My favorite part of living in Roanoke is definitely being in the mountains. It’s so easy to get outside here and find activities that are suitable for all levels. From pro cyclists to beginner cyclists, seasoned hikers to “every once in a while” trail walkers, there is something for everyone. I am also really fortunate to have a strong group of friends here who are active, involved, and truly motivational to be around.
What professional/social groups are you involved in? How can others get involved?
I am new to being an advisor for Experience Leadership Institute and I am so glad to be part of this program! I’ve participated in several networking meetups and professional development workshops with Virginia Tech and I am passionate about helping young professionals in their career journey, as my own career path has been anything but straight forward.
What interesting fact do you share as a conversation starter?
Before I started college, I took a gap year. I lived in NYC for a little over a month, interning with a singer/songwriter. Post NYC, I moved to Gatlinburg, Tennessee, for work-study at Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, where I studied metalsmithing and lost wax casting. I then moved back home and started working full time at Whole Foods Market to raise money for my end of the year trips to London and Paris. I even squeezed in a trip down to Key West, Florida, with my mom.
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