Embry-Riddle Worldwide College of Business Receives Historic Multimillion Gift

A Tucson, Arizona, couple with strong ties to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Worldwide Campus College of Business have pledged the largest gift in the college’s history.

Dr. Gerald Cook, an adjunct professor of Business at the college, and his wife, Diane, who retired from higher education, have made a multimillion-dollar estate gift that reflects their deep commitment to empowering faculty and fostering academic excellence.

Gerald and Diane Cook have pledged a multimillion-dollar estate gift to the Worldwide Campus College of Business. (Photo: Embry-Riddle) Once realized, the Diane and Gerald Cook Endowed Fund for Excellence will provide vital resources for curriculum development, cutting-edge research and the integration of new learning technologies. It will support students and faculty by funding merit- and need-based scholarships, professional development opportunities and experiential learning initiatives, including internships, study abroad and collaborative projects. Additionally, the fund will advance emerging initiatives, ensuring the college remains agile and able to address new opportunities.

“Diane and I are pleased to fund the endowment,” said Gerald Cook. “Teaching in the Worldwide College of Business is an enriching complement to my airline career, and assisting students in obtaining a high-quality, online degree is a privilege.”

The couple have strong roots in higher education. Diane, who graduated from the University of Miami with an MBA, served at her alma mater as vice president and treasurer and retired after 30 years of service to the university. 

Gerald has decades of experience in aviation from pilot to airline flight operations manager from 1978 to 2010. He became an adjunct professor in the Worldwide Campus College of Business in 2001, teaching economics and airline management. His development of the cornerstone course for the graduate program in airline operations has played an integral role in shaping future leaders in aviation.

“We are so grateful to Diane and Jerry for their generous leadership,” said Maneesh Sharma, dean of the Worldwide Campus College of Business.  “It will transform the college and inspire others to contribute to the vibrant and collaborative culture that defines the College of Business at Worldwide.”

This gift underscores the growing strength of the college and highlights its ability to inspire major investment in its programs, further solidifying its reputation as a leader in business education.

Embry-Riddle’s Worldwide Campus currently ranks No. 12 overall in U.S. News & World Report’s Best Online Programs rankings.

Posted In: Business | Institutional News