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Generosity from the Gallaudet campus and CAC help Coach Cook's family in recovery efforts

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The outpouring support shown by the Gallaudet University community and the Capital Athletic Conference was overwhelming as the Bison collected donations for Coach Kevin Cook's family after a tragic house fire last month took the life of Cook's sister Kelly Preston. Kelly was able to save her 16-year-old daughter and 3-month-old grandson, who are now living with relatives in Helena, Ohio.

"I am very thankful and humbled by all of the support shown by the Gallaudet University community, from faculty, staff, alumni and students, and the conference teams and officials during this difficult time," said Cook, Gallaudet's women's basketball coach. "My family appreciates all of the thoughts and prayers and donations that have helped my niece and her baby. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart."

Gallaudet's men's and women's basketball teams collected clothing and money for the family during a two-week stretch in late December. Donations also came from within the Capital Athletic Conference as rival schools and officials made contributions to the cause. All of the donations, over 10 boxes, were mailed out to the family this month.

"The University community showed great generosity to help Kevin's family," said Jeb Barber, Gallaudet's men's basketball coach. "We really wanted to help one of our own during a tough time."