Cook, a Kansas State University graduate and former member of K-State’s Alumni Association board of directors, will report directly to the university president and serve as a member of the president’s cabinet. She also will coordinate community affairs for the university, representing the president’s office on issues related to the city of Manhattan and regional economic development initiatives.

Cook will provide leadership for the prestigious Landon Lecture Series and coordinate special projects, working with the president and provost. In addition, she will serve as liaison between the president’s office and the Kansas State University Foundation and K-State Alumni Association. McCain Auditorium and the Beach Museum of Art will also report to Cook.

“Linda Cook has deep knowledge about K-State, and her background in communications and management will be a tremendous asset to our office and the university,” said Richard Myers, president of Kansas State University. “We deeply appreciate the service of her predecessor, Jackie Hartman. K-State is fortunate to have such experienced professionals who are willing to give back to their university.”

Cook currently serves as assistant vice president of communications for the K-State Alumni Association, and has nearly 40 years of experience in communications and business planning. She has held senior-level positions at General Motors, Honeywell and the Midwest Research Institute, while also providing communications consulting services.