Ola Thorpe-Cooper is a longtime resident of Henderson. She earned a bachelor’s degree in urban studies and business management from the University of the District of Columbia and a master of divinity in religion from Howard University. She lives in Henderson, North Carolina.

Ola is retired from federal government service, where she worked as a management analyst and program analyst. She currently serves as pastor of Holy Temple UHC in Henderson. She previously served as an associate minister at Third Baptist Church in Washington, DC, and held leadership roles at Mt. Zion UHCA, including minister in training, president of the mission department, and youth department leader.

Ola is currently an incumbent member of the Henderson City Council, representing Ward 4. She was first elected in 2021 and is serving her first term.