Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Dr. Oscar James Cooper (1888-1974) Oscar James Cooper (1888-1974) was born in Washington, D.C. - Graduated from the M Street High School, Washington, D.C. - Bachelor of Science Degree, Howard University, 1913 - Doctor of Medicine Degree, Howard University, 1917 - Practiced medicine in Philadelphia, PA for 50 years Upon finishing the elementary schools of Washington, Brother Cooper entered Howard University, from which he obtained his baccalaureate degree and his degree of Doctor of Medicine. Some of the academic subjects had little interest for him; for his all-absorbing interest in college was Biology. His aptness and proficiency along this line drew him rapidly to Professor Just, who was at that time at Howard University teaching Biology. So accomplished was Brother Cooper in this subject that he was made a laboratory assistant in Biology. Brother Cooper thus was the link, between our other Founders, all Juniors, in the fall of 1911, and Professor Just, the eminent, young, associate professor, who advised the three young pioneers, Love, Cooper and Coleman. Brother Cooper early showed that he believed both in pleasure and in work. He liked to socialize; but he also liked to work, to work hard for the achievement of great ends. Accordingly in the founding of Omega, Brother Cooper worked unsparingly along with the other Founders many a night until late in the morning. Upon completing his medical course, Brother Cooper settled in Philadelphia and worked untiringly and persistently until he built up one of the most lucrative practices to be found among the physicians of Philadelphia. He had an excellent general library and an excellent medical library. It is a real inspiration to go through these libraries and through his office. Brother Cooper is ever discovering new techniques in his field and using them efficiently.