The William J. Cooper Foundation provides a varied program of lectures, performances and exhibitions which enriches the academic work of the College. The Foundation was established by William J. Cooper who specified that the income from his gift should be used "in bringing to the college eminent citizens of this and other countries who are leaders in statesmanship, education, the arts, sciences, learned professions and business." The Promise Fund, established anonymously by an alumnus on the occasion of his graduation, "brings guest speakers and performers in music, film, dance, and theatre who show promise of distinguished achievement."
The normal process for receiving funding for Cooper events is to apply by the announced deadline early in the spring semester for events intended for the following academic year. The Cooper Committee recognizes that extraordinary opportunities may arise on short notice to bring pre-eminent performers or speakers to campus. Therefore, members of the College community may apply to the chair(s) of the William J. Cooper Foundation Committee for these serendipitous events.