A national search has culminated with Fort Lewis College appointing a new FLC Foundation CEO and vice president for advancement, according to a news release issued last week by the college.
Lori Cook, who hails from Texas, will serve in both roles, the college said. Cook is an “experienced fundraising leader with more than 13 years of record-setting advancement success,” according to the release.
Cook, who holds a Master of Arts from Louisiana State University and a Bachelor of Arts in communication and media studies and English language and literature from Southwestern University, most recently worked for three years as associate vice president for development at the University of Texas at El Paso.
Cook previously worked as a regional development officer at Tulane from 2017 to 2018, as director of development for colleges at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette from 2018 to 2020, and in several roles at Utah State University from January 2022 to February 2023, including associate vice president of collegiate development.
Cook’s new roles at FLC will involve working closely with the FLC Foundation Board of Directors to secure private support for the college and serving as the college’s chief development officer and key adviser to the president. The role will include leading planned giving, major gifts, annual giving, alumni engagement, corporate and foundation relations, and advancement services, according to the release.
FLC President Heather Shotton voiced her support for Cook in the release.
“Fort Lewis College has exceeded fundraising goals year after year, and we are poised for an even greater impact,” Shotton said. “Lori brings a proven record of campaign leadership, major gift success, and a deep understanding of how philanthropy fuels student success. Just as important, she leads with integrity, inclusion, and a genuine belief in our mission.”
Cook said in the release that FLC’s commitment to mission, excellence and community drew her to the role.
“I find myself drawn to institutions where the mission truly matters and where the warmth of the campus community makes the college feel like home,” she said. “This is a place where the work of advancement can make a meaningful difference for students and families across the region.”
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