Professor Chris Cooper was Professor in the Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University in the UK. He had a PhD in Geography from University College London. Chris worked as a researcher and teacher in every region of the world and had extensive publishing experience. He gained experience in tour operation before returning to academic life. Chris worked with international agencies including the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). He held the Chair of the UNWTO's Education Council from 2005 to 2007 and was awarded the United Nations Ulysses Medal for contributions to tourism education and policy in 2009.