Alumni Spotlight - Dennis Cook

Inspired by the success of athlete Terry Metcalf, Dennis Cook made the decision to attend EvCC. Like Metcalf, Dennis was a stand-out track athlete who held the triple-jump record during his time at the college. “Everyone was so encouraging and helpful at EvCC,” he says. “I was inspired to continue my education and athletic career to show other young athletes how to take advantage of the programs that would help them succeed in the working world.” Dennis made good on his desire, recently retiring from the City of Seattle after working 37 years in the parks and recreation department, overseeing all youth and adult athletics for the City. Today, he runs his own consulting company, Dennis Cook Consulting. “At EvCC, I was encouraged to look to the future and make the most of my current experiences,” he says. “I believe EvCC prepared me for life.”

What is your current occupation/career?

I retired in 2013 from the City of Seattle after working 37 years in the Parks and Recreation Department. I currently run my own consultant company, Dennis Cook Consulting. I oversaw all youth and adult athletics, all field scheduling, and management of the School/Parks Joint Use agreement.

How did you choose EvCC? Was there a selection process involved in your decision making?

I chose EvCC due to the success of Terry Metcalf. Also, I enjoyed the head track coach Will McGilvary. I knew EvCC was far enough from home, but close enough to come home, if necessary.

Do you think your time at EvCC helped you pursue your current career? How?

I believe EvCC prepared me for life.EvCC gave me the opportunity to experience life away from my parents and family. Everyone was so encouraging and helpful during my time at EvCC.

What did you do after you left (or graduated from) EvCC?

I continued my track and academic experience at the University of Washington and then continued my academic work at the United States Academy to obtain my masters degree.

Was there anyone during your time at EvCC who acted as a mentor for you? Tell me about that relationship and why it was valuable

Yes, Coach McGilvary. Coach always encouraged me to look at the future and make the most of my current experience at Everett. I wanted to continue my education and athletic career to show other young athletes that Everett was a great place to grow and help to continue their career.

What words of advice would you give to current EvCC students?

Enjoy your experience and realize that if you want to continue to a bachelor's degree, work within the EvCC system. If EvCC is your last stop, take advantage of the great programs that will help with your success in the working world.

Any other information you would like to provide?

I believe EvCC is the best opportunity for students who aren't sure what they want to do in school or they want to continue on at a university. EvCC is a great experience!

Alumni ad published 9/29/2014