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. - Scholar Success Coach

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.

DeAndre Adams - Scholar Success Coach

DeAndre Adams is a passionate youth development leader and advocate for equity in education, committed to creating opportunities for young people to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.With a strong foundation in community engagement and program coordination, where he leads a diverse portfolio of enrichment and out-of-school time initiatives designed to support and empower students from all backgrounds.

Rooted in his lived experience as a Black male educator and a father, DeAndre brings empathy, accountability, and authenticity to his work. His journey has shaped his unwavering belief that every young person deserves access to meaningful mentorship, culturally relevant programming, and a safe space to be seen, heard, and celebrated. DeAndre works to uplift Black students and families through culturally grounded support, leadership development, and community partnerships. He sees this work as both a calling and a responsibility to honor the past, serve the present, and build toward a more just future.

Outside of his professional commitments, DeAndre enjoys quality time with his daughter, connecting with others through storytelling, gaming, music, and finding joy in life’s small, meaningful moments. He is currently pursuing further opportunities in education, aiming to expand his impact and deepen his commitment to inclusive, student-centered learning.