Kenneth H. Cooper, M.D. Endowed Professorship in Preventive Cardiology

Est. 2007

The Kenneth H. Cooper, M.D. Endowed Professorship in Preventive Cardiology was originally established as a research fund in 2007. It was upgraded to a professorship later that same year, and it now supports faculty and research into preventive cardiology in UW Medicine’s Division of Cardiology.

A world-renowned authority in preventive medicine and an alumnus of the University of Washington (through his internship training at Harborview Medical Center), Dr. Kenneth H. Cooper is known as “the Father of Aerobics.” Dr. Cooper coined the word “aerobics” in a book of the same name, published in 1968. At the same time, he introduced the concept of aerobics to millions worldwide, and he is credited with motivating more people to exercise in pursuit of good health than any other person.

In related achievements, Dr. Cooper developed the 12-minute fitness test and the Aerobics Point System, which today is used by military organizations, athletics teams and many schools worldwide. He served as founder and chairman of the Cooper Aerobics Center in Dallas, with a second location in McKinney, Texas. With the creation of seven health and wellness companies, a global nonprofit dedicated to preventive medicine research and education, the publication of 19 books, and the expansion of his mission to “Cooperize the world,” Dr. Cooper has not only helped people become more fit and healthy, but also has been able to prove the connections between an active lifestyle and health.

With his emphasis on preventive medicine and exercise, Dr. Cooper has revolutionized the field of heart health. And with the creation of the Kenneth H. Cooper, M.D. Endowed Professorship in Preventive Cardiology, he and his wife, Millie, are creating a permanent legacy to support faculty at UW Medicine who also will promote cardiac wellness.

If you are interested in supporting this work, please make a gift.