INTERCULTURAL

LEADERS

MEJDI Tours

Intercultural Innovation Award (IIA)

A successful business owner, social entrepreneur, and business strategist, Scott Cooper spent a decade in the private sector, most recently as a banker and financial representative for JP Morgan Chase, before joining George Mason University’s (GMU) Center for World Religions, Diplomacy and Conflict Resolution as its co-executive director in 2009. Under Scott’s direction, the center’s budget grew 100-fold, and operated programs in Afghanistan, Iran, Turkey, Jordan, Palestine, and Israel. The MEJDI co-founder and CEO established GMU’s first business and conflict resolution program, and spearheaded an innovative study abroad program that takes students throughout the Middle East and beyond. Passionate about travel, peace building, and socially and environmentally responsible tourism, Scott utilizes his expertise in wealth preservation and growth to help social investors and peace builders employ innovative business models to facilitate positive change. As MEJDI’s ‘Co-CEO’, Scott focuses on strategy, operations, and company culture. He previously worked at the United States Institute of Peace on a project focused on evaluating peace-building programs in conflict zones, and has advised numerous NGOs on sustainable models for organizational growth. Scott holds a degree in political science from Arizona State University and a Master of Science degree in conflict analysis and resolution from George Mason University. Scott prides himself on not taking life too seriously, and loves watching stand-up comedy, playing ice hockey, and engaging in ‘intense’ ping pong matches at the MEJDI office.