COSTA MESA, CA - The Coast Community College District (CCCD) announced Ryan Cook as the new Director of the Coast Community College District Foundation, where he will lead philanthropic strategy and donor engagement efforts in support of student success at the district level.
Ryan grew up in Orange County and attended Mater Dei High School and Newport Harbor High School. He earned a scholarship to play water polo at the University of Southern California before continuing his athletic career at Golden West College. While at Golden West College, Ryan was a member of the 2008 water polo team, which completed an undefeated season and won the state championship.
Since his time as a student-athlete at GWC, Ryan served in advancement leadership roles at five universities across the country, including multiple institutions within the California State University system, as well as Seattle University and Cleveland State University. He also brings significant private-sector experience from professional sports organizations, including work with the California Rodeo, three NBA franchises, the Los Angeles Angels, and the High Desert Mavericks, Minor League Baseball affiliate of the Seattle Mariners and Texas Rangers.
"I am enthusiastic about collaborating closely with each college's leadership and foundation executive directors to serve as a strategic connector across campuses. In this role, I aim to enhance capacity by bringing an additional advancement resource to local, regional, and national markets, while fully supporting each college's unique mission, culture, and priorities. My approach is rooted in collaboration, not competition, ensuring that together we advance the educational opportunities, student success, and community impact that are at the heart of each institution's work."
"We are excited to welcome Ryan Cook as Director of the Coast Community College District Foundation," said CCCD Chancellor Whitney Yamamura. "His extensive experience, knowledge of the local community and collaborative approach will strengthen our efforts to expand educational access and student success across our colleges."
The Coast Community College District Foundation works collaboratively with all three of the District's colleges to elevate district-wide philanthropy while honoring each college's distinct identity and fundraising priorities. As Foundation Director, Ryan will begin meeting with stakeholders to advance CCCD's philanthropic priorities and build momentum for the Foundation's next chapter.
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