Our Why

Established in 2024, the Black, Educated, Successful, Thriving (B.E.S.T.) Young Male Enrichment Program is a community-rooted, prevention-focused initiative that is committed to transforming the narrative for Black men in education, career, and beyond. Driven by our dedication to equity and excellence, we're dedicated to creating a future where Black men not only survive — but thrive!

Meet the Team

James A. Cooper., MA - Founder & CEO

James A. Cooper Jr., MA (He/Him/His), Founder & CEO of B.E.S.T., boasts a diverse professional background spanning entrepreneurship, career and college advising, workforce development, recruitment and retention strategic planning, leadership management, student affairs, instructing, and diversity, equity, and inclusion practices. Alongside his role at B.E.S.T., James is also the founder and CEO of James Cooper Consulting LLC., a company with a mission of empowering people with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to accomplish their desired career goals or execute positive workforce transformation within their organization.

His educational credentials include a B.S. in Management and Marketing and a M.A. in Organization, Leadership, Policy, and Development. As a scholar practitioner, his past research topics have focused on access and utilization of career exploration/development resources by underrepresented/underserved populations and recruitment/retention programs focused on students, staff, and faculty of color.

Born in Liberia, West Africa, James Cooper Jr. immigrated to the United States in 2001 with his family and grew up in Brooklyn Park, MN.

Education has always been a central value in James’ life, and he is deeply committed to empowering others to reach their full potential. With a holistic coaching style rooted in empowerment, James utilizes a social cognitive career and asset based lens to support others. He is often credited as a strategizer, implementer, and connector. He thrives in his ability to bring ideas into fruition and in streamlining process improvements.

Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, James actively contributes to the community as a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., 100 Black Men Twin Cities, and Urban League Twin Cities Young Professionals.

James lives by the motto that as we rise, we must bring others with us. This guiding principle was, and continues to be, the driving force behind the establishment of B.E.S.T.

Matthew J. DeBianchi - Finance & Operations Manager

Matthew James DeBianchi is a philomath and constantly seeks to improve himself, as well as those within his community. His skill set within the Operations and Finance realm has been illustrated within different Firms and Banks throughout his professional career thus far. Matthew grew up in Minnesota, and is the son of a Haitian immigrant and small town farmer. He has always been passionate about helping those in need - especially those within his community. Over the past few years he has shifted his professional focus towards increasing equity and shining a light on the plight Black Americans have faced for centuries. Education has always been important to him, and he is especially passionate about this initiative in light of the current climate within this country.

In his free time, Matt enjoys being around those that he loves, and that love him. Hikes with his girlfriend and dog, card/board games, and prank shows (shout out Impractical Jokers) are some of the things he enjoys when decompressing. He holds a B.S. in Psychology, and is currently enrolled to obtain his EMBA at Quantic School of Business and Technology.

Nyemadi L. Dunbar - Communications & Marketing Manager

Nyemadi Louise Dunbar is a storyteller and strategist who enjoys bringing ideas to life. Her talent has helped to bring impactful initiatives and projects across the finish line for companies in various industries.

Raised in Minnesota, the daughter of Liberian immigrants, she is dedicated to eradicating oppression and destructive -isms toward seeing society realize itself as a truly inclusive, innovative, and exciting place full of thriving, whole people.

When she’s not putting her wheelhouse of expertise to use, she can be found theorizing about the universe, exploring a city on Earth, or leading marketing efforts for the University of Minnesota’s Black Alumni Network. Nyemadi holds a B.A. in Global Studies from the University of Minnesota — Twin Cities and an MBA from the University of St. Thomas.

Eric Dormoh, Jr. - Program Manager

Eric Dormoh, Jr. is a dedicated educator and mentor whose passion lies in empowering individuals to realize and achieve their fullest potential. With a wealth of experience in areas such as college access, career development, and mentorship, Eric has made significant contributions in collegiate advising and leadership training throughout his career. His background as the son of Liberian immigrants, coupled with his upbringing in the culturally rich Twin Cities, instills in him a deep appreciation for the strength and resilience of community.

Eric believes that education is a vital pathway to success, and he works tirelessly to open doors for students and young professionals, guiding them through the challenges of academia and career planning.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Eric enjoys cherishing moments with his family, immersing himself in thought-provoking documentaries, and exploring the diverse culinary landscape of the local food scene, where he finds inspiration in the stories behind each dish. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Sports Management from the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and a Master of Science in Educational Leadership & Policy Analysis from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, equipping him with a robust academic foundation to support his mission of fostering growth and opportunity for others.

Cameron N. Jackson - Scholar Success Coach

Cameron Jackson is a dedicated student leader and emerging legal scholar passionate about youth empowerment, education equity, and community transformation. A political science graduate at Saint John’s University and now current student at Mitchell Hamline School of Law, Cameron combines academic rigor with lived experience to help young people access the opportunities they deserve.

As a mentor, coach, and advocate, Cameron has worked extensively with youth through programs emphasizing leadership development, academic readiness, and life skills. His background in coaching, student engagement, and peer mentorship reflects a deep commitment to creating supportive, structured spaces where young Black men can thrive. Cameron’s journey — from navigating higher education as a first-generation college student to mentoring others in college readiness and scholarship success — aligns strongly with B.E.S.T.’s mission to empower young Black men academically, professionally, and personally. He brings strong organizational skills, a collaborative mindset, and a values-driven approach to program coordination, communication, and mentorship.

Guided by the belief that “representation transforms possibility,” Cameron aims to help B.E.S.T. scholars prepare not only for college but for leadership in their communities — ensuring they are Black, Educated, Successful, and Thriving.

Kendrick Walton - Scholar Success Coach

Kendrick is a Restorative Justice Practitioner with a community organization, serving Hennepin County. In this role, he provides program direction, professional development, and direct services to schools and their districts. Additionally, he serves on several nonprofit boards and continues to volunteer in community. Kendrick has also served as an educator and debate coach in Minneapolis Public Schools, where his focus was promoting equitable practices.

Carrying a passion for restorative practices in education, Kendrick cultivates spaces that are healing-focused, well-being centric and forward-thinking. He also holds extensive experience in providing victim-centered, trauma-informed training and assistance for criminal justice, social service, and other professional organizations. He has also presented on restorative practices and K12 education both nationally and internationally. Kendrick earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History and Political Science from St. Cloud State University.

Jaelen Stephen - Scholar Success Coach

Jaelen was born and raised in Vancouver, Washington. His best friend talked him into St. John's University, where he majored in communication with a minor in economics and a specialization in entrepreneurship. After graduation Jaelen landed at Arctic Wolf. Four years later, he works with national solution providers and leads their businesses across the United States and Canada.

Jaelen is a serial entrepreneur with his personal brand leading the charge. That brand is J.A.E., short for Justify All Efforts, and it's how he runs his days and his life. Every move has a reason, every hour has a return, and every effort has to justify itself.

With B.E.S.T., Jaelen brings real-world experience and keep the focus on student wins. I show them how businesses actually grow, how to build a brand the right way, how technology and AI are reshaping the careers ahead of them, and how to start thinking about money and investing early. I also push the habits that make all of it possible: discipline, consistency, and taking care of your body and your mind.

Outside of work, Jaelen is passionate about real estate, stock investing, and entrepreneurship. He talks often about business and about creating more ownership opportunities for the Black community. Jaelen stays active too, whether that's time in the weight room or time outdoors.

Jaelen's goal is simple: he wants every student that he works with to leave with a clearer picture of what they want, a plan to go get it, and the confidence to own their outcomes.