ROC Black History Spotlight: Vic Cooper

Howard Payne University senior is active in music and plans to become a military physician

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Victoriano "Vic" Cooper is a senior music and biochemistry major at Howard Payne University who is active in various musical groups on campus. After graduation, he plans to attend medical school at Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine and join the Air Force as a military physician. Vic comes from a family of medical professionals, with his father being a certified Physician Assistant and his brother serving in the U.S. Air Force.

Why it matters

This profile is part of a series highlighting amazing African Americans who have made contributions to the Brownwood and Brown County community, in honor of the 100th anniversary of Black History Month.

The details

Vic Cooper is involved in numerous musical activities at Howard Payne University, including theatre, concert band, jazz band, choir, and chapel band. He is skilled at playing a variety of instruments like piano, violin, saxophone, guitar, and drums. Vic also serves at local churches on Sundays, providing music and worship. After completing his undergraduate degree, he plans to attend medical school and join the Air Force as a military physician, following in the footsteps of his brother who is also a Howard Payne graduate.

  • Vic Cooper is a senior at Howard Payne University.
  • This year marks the 100th anniversary of Black History Month.

The players

Victoriano "Vic" Cooper

A senior music and biochemistry major at Howard Payne University who is active in various musical groups on campus.

Dr. Charles Cooper

Vic's father, who is a certified Physician Assistant with more than 25 years of clinical experience in internal and family medicine.

Mrs. Adelie Cooper

Vic's mother, who is an RN Oncology Manager at Walker Cancer Center.

Dr. Abraham F.J. Cooper

Vic's older brother, who serves in the United States Air Force and is also a graduate of Howard Payne University.

Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine

The medical school that Vic plans to attend after graduating from Howard Payne University.

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What’s next

After graduating from Howard Payne University, Vic Cooper plans to attend medical school at Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine and join the Air Force as a military physician.

The takeaway

Vic Cooper's story highlights the contributions of young African Americans in the Brownwood and Brown County community, continuing the legacy of Black excellence and service that is being celebrated during the 100th anniversary of Black History Month.