Our Team
Executive Director
Mary-Ann Baldwin
Mary-Ann Baldwin has a long history of serving non-profits and advocating for causes such as housing affordability and choice, transit, and innovation and entrepreneurship.
Mary-Ann started her career as a journalist after graduating from the University of Rhode Island, her home state. In the past, she has served as a marketing and communications professional in the health care, engineering, construction and legal fields, as well as professional sports. She also served as Executive Director of the Carolina Hurricanes Kids ‘n Community Foundation and the Holt Brothers Foundation, which supports children who have a parent with cancer.
Currently she serves as Chair of the GoTriangle Board of Trustees and on the Board at William Peace University. During the past year, she received the IMPACT Award from Triangle CREW, the Community Champion Award from Triangle Business Journal and was named one of the Women to KNOW in North Carolina by the organization, KNOW Women.
As the Executive Director of the Cooper Charitable Foundation, Mary-Ann continues her mission to make a meaningful impact. Under her leadership, we have helped house 279 people, including 135 children, since June 2024.
Associate Executive Director — Atlanta Region
Kathy Colbenson, LMFT
Kathy Colbenson was hired to lead the Cooper Charitable Foundation’s expansion into the Atlanta region, serving as Associate Executive Director.
With almost 40 years of non-profit leadership experience, Kathy will focus on creating strategicpartnerships, establishing an Advisory Board to guide the Foundation’s work, helping with potential donor relationships, and amplifying awareness of the Foundation’s work and impact throughout the region.
Kathy retired at the end of 2024 from her role as the CEO of CHRIS 180, an organization that provides behavioral health services, foster care, community services and a supportive housingprogram that helps children, adults and families. Additionally, she is a licensed marriage and family therapist.
During her 37 years with CHRIS 180, she was recognized with numerous awards and in 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024 was named by Atlanta Magazine as one of the city’s 500 Most Influential Leaders. Most recently, she was honored by the Rotary Club of Buckhead with the Reverend Robert Ross Johnson Humanitarian of Year Award.
“Housing stability is foundational to health, safety and opportunity,” says Kathy. “Atlanta has a strong non-profit housing ecosystem. My focus is on working in partnership with the community to strengthen these efforts so that families can secure and remain housed, supported and have a chance to build a better life.”
Our Board
Founder
John Cooper
John Cooper is the founder and CEO of Cooper Tacia General Contracting Company and the founder of the Cooper Charitable Foundation, as well as the chair of the board of directors.
Previously, he served on the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors and the Board of Directors at Haven in Lee County, a non-profit that provides shelter and services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
Raised in Sanford, NC, John attended North Carolina State University, graduating with an engineering degree in construction management. His entrepreneurial spirit, discipline and determination led him to become a successful business owner while in parallel, his background and family heritage made him a natural philanthropist and community leader.
You can read more about John in this Executive Voice article published by Triangle Business Journal
Board Member
Mary Pierce
Mary serves as the Executive Vice President of Accounting and Corporate Controller for Cooper Tacia Industries, Inc.
In this role, she oversees the accounting and human resources functions not only for the general contracting firm, but also for all of its sister companies.
As a member of the senior leadership team, Mary plays a key role in setting strategic direction and organizational goals. Her deep expertise in construction accounting, insurance, and compliance with federal and municipal contracts makes her an invaluable asset to the continued growth and success of the company.
Board Member
Scott Stamey
Scott is Executive Vice President and Atlanta Division Manager at Cooper Tacia General Contracting, where he leads commercial and industrial construction projects across the Southeast.
With a background in engineering and two decades of experience in project management, he’s passionate about building both strong teams and lasting relationships. Scott earned his mechanical engineering degree from NC State and is an active member of the Rotary Club of Midtown Atlanta.
Originally from North Carolina, he now lives in Atlanta with his family, and he enjoys mentoring young professionals and supporting local causes that invest in people and community.
Board Member
Stacie Deluca
Stacie’s journey has been shaped by the strength and love of her single mother. Inspired by her upbringing, she developed a deep empathy for women and families navigating similar paths. Guided by the kindness others have shown her, Stacie lives by the motto “pay it forward” and is passionate about making a lasting impact.
A 2010 graduate of Virginia Tech with a BS in Management, Stacie now supports the Cooper Charitable Foundation team from her home in Virginia Beach, where she lives with her family. She’s especially driven to find meaningful ways the Foundation can help mothers and children build strong, happy futures.
Board Member
Scott Mackey
Scott Mackey is a dedicated and passionate advocate for housing stability and community development, serving as a board member for The Cooper Charitable Foundation. With a wealth of experience in Commercial Banking, Scott brings a unique perspective to the board, combining strategic leadership with a deep commitment to community service.
Throughout his career, Scott has demonstrated expertise in fundraising, program development, governance, or financial management, making him a valuable asset to the organization. Scott has a strong track record of working collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders to drive impactful change in the community.
Beyond his professional role, Scott is actively involved in Rotary International, furthering his commitment to social good. His vision and dedication to improving the community for all help guide the strategic direction of the charity and ensure its long-term success.
Board Member
Stefanie Empie
Stefanie’s story is a powerful example of how kindness can change a life. Raised in a single-parent, low-income household, she experienced firsthand how the compassion of others can open doors—whether it was a grant that funded an extracurricular activity, a friend’s family who welcomed her into new experiences, or a free transit pass to get to her first job.
“The kindness of others changed the trajectory of my life by giving me an opportunity to see beyond my circumstances,” Stefanie shares. “It taught me to work hard, be grateful, and always pay it forward.”
Now serving on the board of the Cooper Charitable Foundation, Stefanie is honored to give back in meaningful ways. She lives in Virginia Beach with her family, where they love finding new adventures together. Professionally, Stefanie brings over 16 years of experience at a national company, currently serving as an Organizational Development Manager.
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