Law
Beta Theta alumnus who have excelled in the field of Law.
Chris Cooper, J.D.
2010
Christopher Cooper, a native of Blytheville, Arkansas, excelled academically and socially throughout his educational journey. He graduated with honors from Blytheville High School in 2008, participating in Math Club, Target Club, and athletics. Notably, he earned recognition as an All-Conference track team thrower. Cooper also contributed significantly to his community as Vice President of Teen In Action, mentoring younger generations.
Securing a full academic scholarship to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), Cooper made a mark as a student-athlete on the football team, specializing as a Defensive End/Defensive Tackle. Equally impressive, he thrived as a debater, achieving a 19th rank internationally out of 167 debaters in the International Public Debate Association. Cooper's leadership skills flourished as Vice President of the George “Doc” Jones Forensic Association and later as President of the Beta Theta Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. His fraternity achievements spanned community service, debate championships, and leadership roles.
Transitioning to the University Of Arkansas School Of Law, Cooper continued his commitment to service and diversity. He held leadership positions in the Black Law Student Association and the Jewish Law Student Association. He showcased his legal acumen as a quarterfinalist in the William H. Sutton Barristers’ Trial Competition and engaged in impactful community work through legal clinics. In 2016, Cooper graduated law school, was admitted to the bar, and established a successful legal career in Chicago.
Cooper's guiding philosophy, "Never compete with the person beside you, only compete with the person inside you," underscores his belief in personal growth and self-improvement over comparison to others.
Most Esteemed Bro. Travis Adams, J.D.
2010
Travis Adams, originally from Blytheville, pursued his higher education at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB), where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. During this time he earned several honors, including Dean’s List (2008-2012), Debate Team (President); Ronald McNair Scholar; Sidley Pre-Law Scholar, and member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity’s Alain LeRoy Locke Honor Society. He furthered his studies at the University of Arkansas, excelling both as a law student and as an instructor in the Political Science Department, teaching American National Government.
During his academic journey, Travis gained valuable experience working as a law clerk for John Barry Baker, Attorney at Law, and interning with the Department of Homeland Security in Washington, D.C. He actively participated in various organizations, serving as president of the Black Law Student Association and a trial advocacy coordinator.
Travis Adams's dedication to learning and excellence led him to earn dual degrees - Juris Doctor and a Master of Public Administration - from the University of Arkansas School of Law. After graduation, he commenced his professional career as a law clerk for the Office of Revenue Legal Counsel at the Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration. Here, he conducted extensive research on taxation and governmental operations, focusing on both state and federal matters.
Transitioning into politics, Travis served as an Assistant Attorney General in the Office of Attorney General, operating within the Civil Litigation Department. In this role, he handled complex cases involving death penalty litigation, racial reform, and administrative law issues, ranging from FIOA requests to lemon laws.
Travis Adams's impressive academic achievements and impactful contributions in the legal and political domains showcase his commitment to making a difference in his community and beyond.