Richard B. "Rich" Cooper is Business Liaison Director for Science and Technology for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Office of the Private Sector. In this role, he serves the Department by building relationships and networks with private sector companies and organizations in science and technology, creating open channels of communication and engagement to aid critical Homeland Security areas and programs. Mr. Cooper has taken an active leadership role in the formation of Department policies, strategies and communications for private sector preparedness and business continuity working closely with the 9/11 Commission, the Ready - Business campaigns and other organizations and efforts. He possesses a B.A. in Political Science and Religion from Mary Washington College and is currently working towards a Masters in Public and International Affairs (National Security) at Virginia Tech.