ST. LOUIS – Harris-Stowe State University's Director of Athletics, William Carey, has named Head Men's Basketball Coach, Michael Cook, as the Assistant Athletic Director for Community Partnerships & Fan Experience.

"The St. Louis community is at the center of what we do at Harris-Stowe Athletics. As the only HBCU in the City of St. Louis, we have a responsibility to serve and be present in our community. This is also the next step in improving our fan experience across the board from sporting events, community events to gameday broadcasts.", stated Athletic Director Carey. "With servant leadership close to his heart, Coach Cook is the right person for this role and he will do an excellent job,"

Cook comes to Harris-Stowe from Fort Scott Community College, where he coached 15-seasons. Under his leadership, over 45 of his players have went on to play at four-year schools, nineteen players are ranked on the all-time scoring list, nineteen on the all-time rebounding list and ten players on the all-time assist leaders. Currently, six of his players are overseas and five are playing semi-professional basketball. Also, the program posted the most single-season wins in the 2017-2018 season, which is only the 5^th time the program posted a 20-win season.

Cook said, "First, I would like to thank Dr. Collins-Smith and William Carey for the opportunity to represent Harris-Stowe State University in the St. Louis community, while working with members of the community to create a partnership that will be beneficial for everyone.  I look forward to being creative and innovative in working to bring a great experience for our fans of all ages."

Cook was a two-year starter for Eastern Oklahoma State College from 1988-1990 prior to transferring to Pittsburg State University, where he started from 1990-1992. During his senior year, the team compiled a record of 21-8 and was ranked fourth in the nation.

Cook earned his bachelor's degree from Pittsburg State University in General Studies and his master's from Northcentral University in Sport & Athletic Management. He is also a member of Phi Theta Kappa.

Cook resides in St. Louis, Missouri, with his wife Latisha (formerly Kelley). Cook has two daughters, Rayven and Mataya, and two sons, Lakelon, and Andrew as well as four grandchildren, Avery, Adrian, Khylen and Andi.