Christy Cook joins diocesan Catholic Schools Office as president of Bright Futures Schools
The Diocese of Kansas City–St. Joseph Catholic Schools Office is pleased to announce the appointment of Christy Cook as president of Bright Futures Schools.
Cook is a mission-driven nonprofit executive with more than 18 years of leadership experience in Catholic education, nonprofit operations, fundraising and community engagement. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to strengthening individuals, families and communities through faith-centered leadership, strategic planning and sustainable growth initiatives.
Her extensive background in Catholic education and nonprofit leadership will help further the mission and long-term vitality of Bright Futures Schools as they continue providing exceptional Catholic education opportunities for students and families in Kansas City’s urban core.
In addition to her professional experience, Cook has deep roots in the Kansas City community and a strong understanding of the needs of local families, parishes, schools and community partners. Her collaborative leadership style and passion for Catholic education make her well suited to guide Bright Futures Schools into the future.
“I am honored to serve the Diocese of Kansas City–St. Joseph and support the mission of Catholic education through Bright Futures Schools,” Cook said.
The role of president of the Bright Futures Fund was established in 2026 in response to increased community need and opportunity for growth within the Bright Futures schools. As president, Christy will guide the four schools currently supported by the Bright Futures Fund – Holy Cross, Our Lady of Hope, Our Lady’s Montessori School and St. Regis Academy – to increase enrollment and strengthen support for the various funding models.
Cook is a mission-driven nonprofit executive with more than 18 years of leadership experience in Catholic education, nonprofit operations, fundraising and community engagement. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a deep commitment to strengthening individuals, families and communities through faith-centered leadership, strategic planning and sustainable growth initiatives.
Her extensive background in Catholic education and nonprofit leadership will help further the mission and long-term vitality of Bright Futures Schools as they continue providing exceptional Catholic education opportunities for students and families in Kansas City’s urban core.
In addition to her professional experience, Cook has deep roots in the Kansas City community and a strong understanding of the needs of local families, parishes, schools and community partners. Her collaborative leadership style and passion for Catholic education make her well suited to guide Bright Futures Schools into the future.
“I am honored to serve the Diocese of Kansas City–St. Joseph and support the mission of Catholic education through Bright Futures Schools,” Cook said.
The role of president of the Bright Futures Fund was established in 2026 in response to increased community need and opportunity for growth within the Bright Futures schools. As president, Christy will guide the four schools currently supported by the Bright Futures Fund – Holy Cross, Our Lady of Hope, Our Lady’s Montessori School and St. Regis Academy – to increase enrollment and strengthen support for the various funding models.
St. Regis Academy becomes newest Bright Futures Fund school
Unique hybrid model pairs parish support with private funds for students in need
Unique hybrid model pairs parish support with private funds for students in need
The Bright Futures Fund was recognized by Governor Mike Kehoe (not pictured), State Treasurer Vivek Malek (far left) and Missouri State Representative for District 108, Mike Costlow (far right) as one of six Educational Assistance Organizations in Missouri which facilitate the MO Scholars Program. Representatives from the Diocese of Kansas City - St. Joseph traveled to Jefferson City to be honored on January 28 (l to r: Father Ken Riley, Patti Long, Angela Laville and Bishop James Johnston).