Mercedes Yolanda Cooper

Mercedes Yolanda Cooper has a diverse work experience spanning various roles and industries. Mercedes Yolanda most recently served as the Vice President of Public Programming at ARRAY, starting in January 2021. Prior to that, they were the Director of Programming at ARRAY from January 2019 to January 2021.

Before their time at ARRAY, Mercedes worked at ARRAY Releasing as the Director of Marketing from August 2015 to January 2019. Mercedes Yolanda also held the position of Marketing Manager at the African American Film Festival Releasing Movement (AFFRM) from September 2013 to August 2015.

In addition, Mercedes has experience at Film Independent as a Project: Involve Fellow (Industry Track) from October 2010 to 2011. Mercedes Yolanda also worked at Columbia College Chicago - Portfolio Center as a Communications Coordinator from August 2007 to August 2009. Prior to this, they served as a Creative Industry Liaison at Portfolio Center/Columbia College from November 2005 to July 2007.

Mercedes began their career at the Radio & Television News Directors Foundation as a Project Coordinator from March 2000 to August 2002.

Mercedes Yolanda Cooper's education history includes obtaining a Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in Brazilian Cultural Studies from the University of Maryland between 1995 and 1999. Mercedes Yolanda then pursued a study abroad program at USP - Universidade de São Paulo in 1999, focusing on Business & Economy Institute. Later on, they pursued a Master of Fine Arts degree in Film & Video from Columbia College Chicago, which they completed between 2002 and 2009.