Back to Charlottesville: A Homecoming for Donald Cook

The Cooks (Donald on the far right)

For Donald Cook, returning to UVA is not just a career move; it is a homecoming tied to his strong personal and professional connection to the University.

Last year, Cook had the opportunity to work with UVA through a project with the UVA Health team. The project focused on treasury transformation, and for Cook, it was also a chance to reconnect with the University in a meaningful way. The moment he learned the work involved UVA, he knew he wanted to be part of it. That experience reminded him of what makes the University so special and strengthened his desire to return full-time.

Now back on Grounds as Managing Director for Treasury, Cook says his work carries a renewed sense of purpose. After years in the corporate world, he finds it rewarding to serve a mission-driven institution where every project supports something larger, from students and research to patient care. His passion for treasury work lies in balancing long-term planning with daily management, always aiming to build trust and show how each part connects to the whole.

Cook’s connection to UVA runs deep. His return is not only professional but also personal, marked by his academic journey and family ties. He earned his master’s degree from the McIntire School of Commerce, an experience that shaped both his career and his appreciation for the University’s community. Years later, his son graduated from the University of Virginia in 2023. During those visits to Grounds, Cook was reminded of how special the University is. Now that he and his wife are preparing to move from North Carolina, he calls it a new beginning for them. His wife, who has never lived outside North Carolina, is excited to experience everything Charlottesville has to offer.

Outside of work, Cook enjoys golf, traveling, and trying new foods. He says going out to eat is one of his favorite ways to unwind, and Asian food, especially Thai and sushi, is his top choice. He has traveled often for both work and leisure, but Europe remains a favorite destination, with Switzerland standing out for its calm and beauty.

For Cook, joining UVA again feels like returning to a familiar story. It is a place where his past and present meet, and where he continues to find meaning in his work. As he settles into this new chapter, he says he feels grateful to be part of a community that continues to inspire him every day.