The Cooper Foundation has named former Murphy administration official Sam Parker as its new vice president of advancement to strengthen philanthropic partnerships and community engagement efforts.
WEBDESK – NJNEWSLINE
The Cooper Foundation has appointed Sam Parker as vice president of advancement, bringing a veteran public sector leader into a key role focused on expanding philanthropy and strategic partnerships.
Parker joins the organisation after serving as deputy chief of staff to former New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, where she helped oversee statewide strategic initiatives and coordinated partnerships involving government agencies, businesses and community organisations.
In her new role, Parker will work to deepen donor engagement, strengthen institutional and corporate relationships and support initiatives designed to expand Cooper’s connection with communities across the region.
Philip A. Norcross praised Parker’s appointment, saying her experience in public service and relationship-building would help the organisation continue its philanthropic growth.
“Cooper continues to grow as a leading academic health system, and philanthropy plays a critical role in shaping that future,” Norcross said in a statement.
He added that Parker’s leadership would help expand the reach of philanthropy “in meaningful and lasting ways.”
The vice president of advancement position is considered central to developing high-impact partnerships and increasing philanthropic investment in Cooper’s healthcare and community programs.
Parker’s appointment comes as Cooper advances Project Imagine, a major multi-phase expansion initiative described as one of the largest investments in the history of Camden County.
Officials said Parker will play an important role in aligning philanthropic support and engaging stakeholders to help shape the future of healthcare services throughout the region.

