David L. Archer President | Christian Brothers University website

Courtney Pierce Cook, Director of Scholarships and Grants at Christian Brothers University (CBU), has played a significant role in supporting students through scholarships and grant opportunities. Last spring, as the Class of 2025 prepared for graduation, Cook received a thank-you card from a student, referred to as Lola for privacy. The message highlighted the impact that receiving a scholarship had on Lola’s academic journey and future career.

Cook encouraged Lola to express gratitude to the donor who funded her scholarship. This gesture influenced Lola’s approach during her senior year, where she participated in the Nonprofit Internship Community Experience (NICE) Program. According to Cook, these actions were part of her routine responsibilities. However, for Lola, they marked pivotal moments that shaped her path.

“I didn’t know the student had held me in such high regard,” said Cook. “I have the card on my desk. She wrote me a sweet thank-you and said that receiving the scholarship set the path for her future. Every aspect of her career development centered around that one moment.”

Lola was the first in her family to attend college and earn a degree, an achievement made possible by financial support from CBU scholarships. Her experience not only led to professional opportunities but also inspired her siblings to pursue higher education.

Cook has worked in higher education for 17 years and has been at CBU for over four years. Her background includes roles in student affairs, career services, human resources, and advancement with a focus on community partnerships.

Amy Ware, Assistant Vice President of External Relations and Career Services at CBU, commented on Cook’s dedication: “Courtney goes above and beyond to ensure that students obtain every resource possible to pursue a quality education at CBU,” said Ware. “From her daily role in grants and scholarships, to her assistance in admissions, she demonstrates what it truly means to be Lasallian.”

Cook described her time at CBU as “an amazing experience” and values being able to express her faith while working within the Lasallian mission. She continues to advocate for students’ needs by securing funding for scholarships and increasing awareness about available resources.

“We are incredibly grateful for the continued support of our community partners and alumni who graciously give back to CBU,” said Cook. “For many of our students, scholarships are not just financial assistance—they are the bridge to making their dreams of a college education come true.”

Recently, Cook managed the launch of the Day Foundation La Salle Scholars Program at CBU. This initiative provides up to ten full-tuition renewable scholarships each year for first-time freshmen; its first group began this fall.

“They truly are amazing,” she said. “Their ACT scores and GPAs were so impressive, but it was their compassion, leadership, and drive that made them stand out. We are so proud of this first cohort, and the Day Foundation was pleased with this group, and we are looking forward to welcoming the next group of scholars.”

Cook is also involved in applying for grants that benefit both students and Memphis communities through STEM research initiatives, summer bridge programs, community development grants, and ongoing support for programs like NICE—which is now entering its eleventh year due largely to continued grant funding.

“Changing lives starts small—one dollar and one student at a time,” said Cook.

Her office is located within Buckman Hall’s Office of Advancement and Alumni.