Corner Office: Meet Nick Cooper, executive director and administrator for Masonic Home of Louisville

FAST FACTS

Hometown Louisville
Family My wife (Bobbi Jo) and kids (Halle and Conley)
Hobbies Dancing and playing with the kiddos…which often involves dancing.
Favorite daytime beverage Coffee

 

Medical News: What’s one thing that really piqued your interest in healthcare?

Nick Cooper: Without question, the answer is people and the impact they have on the healthcare industry. All people are connected in the web of healthcare, whether you are a resident who is utilizing one of the services provided or a political representative who has an impact on policy and regulation. The baby boomer population will push all aspects of healthcare to its limits, from options available to pay for healthcare to the highest of expectations from residents and their families. The coming years will be full of challenges and opportunities.

MN: What do you consider your greatest talent or skill?

NC: Whether it is explaining a situation to myself or someone else, I have the ability simplify situations and make rational decisions from there.

MN: What’s one piece of advice you remember most clearly?

NC: Buy a plunger before you need a plunger. This does not apply to just toilets.

MN: Were you in leadership roles when you were younger?

NC: I’m an Eagle Scout, so having participated in the Boy Scouts of America, it required me to take several leadership roles to reach that level. I also take charge in group projects in academics, which has carried over into my professional career.

MN: How have your parents influenced your leadership style? Were there certain expressions that your parents would repeat often to you?

NC: My parents have most certainly influenced my leadership style and work ethic. They first taught me the concept of servant leadership. They were always willing to help when someone asked and expected nothing in return.

MN: Any feedback you’ve gotten over the years about your leadership style that made you think: “Fair point. I’m going to make an adjustment”?

NC: I used to take on more than my fair share of work (and sometimes still do!), but I have learned better, and now delegation plays an important role in my leadership style. I would not ask anyone to do something that I wouldn’t be willing to do myself (something else my parents instilled in me). I have learned how important role delegation is. It allows others to realize success in making extraordinary things happen.

MN: What about lessons you learned from mentors?

NC: First, don’t worry about controlling your emotions; simply enjoy the experience of each one. It is your actions you must control. Don’t be uncomfortable with a feeling; but be cognizant of what actions that feeling may cause you to take.

Second, always love people well while you can. Someday, someone you love will be gone and everything else will suddenly seem irrelevant. Live each day faithfully and always love people well.

MN: For what in your life do you feel most grateful?

NC: I am most grateful for my faith. There are many sacrifices that leaders must make and endure, whether leading a group, organization or community. There are many things that I could do without or could lose, but my faith allows me to support those around me.