Meet Your Neighbor
Read more about your neighbors featured in the latest issue of the Minerva Park Community Association Newsletter
Meet the Coopers! Brandon, Kristen, and their 2-year-old daughter, Elliot, live on Wildwood Rd. The couple lived in Sunbury before moving to MP in 2020. They wanted to be closer to Columbus and loved the sense of community they felt in the village, even from the first time they looked at their home.
Brandon is originally from Delaware County and Kristen is from Holmes County. They started dating in college but have known each other since they were kids! Brandon has family in Holmes County and would visit the area to stay at their family cabin, across a ravine from Kristen’s house. Kristen knew Brandon’s cousins and extended family, and when he would visit, Kristen was part of the gang. They became closer while attending Mount Vernon Nazarene University, and their summers working together at Round Lake Christian Camp brought them together as a couple.
Brandon graduated with a double major in Computer Science and Business Administration. He is currently a Senior Software Engineer at Ad Hoc. Kristen graduated with a degree in Early Childhood Education and taught elementary school for eight years, with the last four at Hanby Elementary. She recently changed careers and now works at the Westerville Library in Youth Services.
The family loves the diversity of the village, the friendships they’ve made, and the community events. Elliot especially loves the pool and playground! They enjoy being outside and staying active, camping at Round Lake as a family, and kayaking and cycling. Since the summer of 2023, Brandon has organized a weekly MP community bike ride. The last ride this year was in October but be on the lookout for rides to start again next spring!
The family belongs to the Westerville Community United Church of Christ. You might also catch Brandon at Creekside Christian Church (where we vote!) playing pickleball this Winter.
Fun facts about the Coopers: Brandon and Kristen are recently licensed foster parents. They have only had once placement to date but are excited to care for more children. Part of the inspiration to become foster parents comes from Brandon’s aunt. She’s adopted 15 children! Kristen also volunteers with a human trafficking organization. They provide victims with clothing, meals, and support.
If you would like to be featured in a future Meet Your Neighbor article, please email ErinCaseyOxender@gmail.com