Tell us about yourself!
I grew up outside of Detroit and eventually graduated from both Michigan State (Accounting) and the Kelley School of Business (MBA). Before joining the Kelley School of Business, I was most recently a director at Alvarez and Marsal Business Consulting, and before that PwC. In my previous career, I specialized in financial and operational due diligence and process redesign. I have been fortunate to have served clients across the globe and in a variety of industries. In 2010, my wife (also a Kelley MBA) and I, returned to IU and raise our kids and dogs here in Bloomington. We are officially Bloomerangs.
Primarily I teach experiential learning e.g., project management classes, within Kelley’s Graduate Accounting Program but for O’Neill, I teach accounting in MSHM. The focus of this class is how accounting information may be used to support decision-making within the Health Care industry. Health Care, like all industries, needs to determine the most effective/efficient ways to leverage limited resources (i.e., people, expertise, money) and accounting plays an important role in this process. One thing I really enjoy is watching people figure things out on their own. This is a life skill. From a child’s first steps to navigating the complexities of the health care system at the moment that the “light turns on” people really are transformed. It is a joy to witness.
When I am not in the office, I am usually running around with one of the kids and their various sports and activities. I also serve as the faculty advisory of Indiana University’s Men’s Rugby Club and the D3 Men’s Hockey Team.
I have been fortunate to generally be surrounded by great friends and colleagues. People who are not only of good character, and who are generally characters, but who have pushed me beyond what I believe are my current capabilities. They have encouraged, consoled, and sometimes scolded me throughout my career and of course, cajoled me on to ever more treacherous mountain trails and river rapids. Associate with people who inspire you to be more, keep them close, and be the friend that does the same. Their support will be immeasurable, and your personal and professional adventures will be epic.
Connect with Professor Cook on LinkedIn!