Kathy Cook

As Senior Director of the ASU Leadership, Diplomacy, and National Security Lab (LDNS Lab), Kathy provides strategic leadership and guidance to Lieutenant General Benjamin C. Freakley, U.S. Army (Ret), and Ambassador-in-Residence Michael C. Polt, while overseeing the lab’s growth and operations. The LDNS Lab is dedicated to developing future leaders in diplomacy, leadership, and national security, with Kathy playing a pivotal role in both its establishment and continued success. With over 20 years of service at Arizona State University, Kathy has built a career defined by progressive leadership and a deep commitment to advancing military and veteran initiatives.

In her additional role as Senior Director of Military and Strategic Initiatives in the Office of University Affairs, Kathy builds and maintains strategic alliances with leadership at Arizona military installations. She establishes and strengthens key liaisons between ASU and military installations across Arizona, ensuring ongoing collaboration and partnership. Kathy also manages the ASU Flag Officer Advisory Council, directs Salute to Service events that honor Arizona’s military leaders, and serves as a resource professional for military protocol policies and guidelines. Her ability to bridge the gap between higher education and military leadership has made her a central figure in fostering strong ties between ASU and Arizona’s military community.

As a former military spouse, Kathy has a personal understanding of the unique challenges faced by military families and is deeply committed to supporting service members and their loved ones. From 2020 to 2022, she served as Honorary Commander to the Luke Air Force Base Command Chief, strengthening the relationship between ASU and the base while actively supporting its personnel. Kathy continues to advocate for military families as a member of the Blue Blazers, an alumni association of the Honorary Commanders Committee of the Fighter Country Foundation at Luke Air Force Base.

Before transitioning into her current role as Senior Director of the LDNS Lab, Kathy worked closely with the Senior Vice President and Secretary of the University to manage the Trustees of ASU. She also coordinated and hosted numerous VIP and international visits, utilizing her protocol expertise to ensure smooth experiences.

A dedicated advocate for the military community, Kathy has developed lasting relationships with military leaders and veterans across the state, ensuring that ASU remains a leader in military-affiliated initiatives.