As a Program Associate to the IIEL, James “Mack” Cook works closely with the Faculty Director and Interim Executive Director to ensure the smooth sailing of events, while also liaising across departments to support the Institute’s financial affairs and programming, to engage with followers on social media accounts, and to implement website redesign. 

Mr. Cook is a graduate from the College of the Holy Cross with a degree in History and Russian and Eastern European Studies. During his undergraduate career, he conducted research and drafted theses on various topics including a comparative analysis of the United States’ and South Korea’s COVID-19 response, the modern formulation of German and Russian national identities, and the geo-political implications of the Russo-Ukrainian War. Additionally, he participated in the Holy Cross Moot Court program, studied abroad at the University of York in England, and volunteered as a tour guide and student ambassador.  

Prior to his role at the Institute, he has worked as a Public Policy Fellow at Cavarocchi Ruscio Dennis Associates and a Compliance Operations and Policy Intern. In these roles, he was responsible for legislative and regulatory tracking, organizing advocacy events and corporate conferences, and assisting with data reporting responsibilities.