Abonmarche is proud to announce that Christopher J. Cook, the firm’s former President and CEO, has been awarded the inaugural 2024 Michigander Alumni Award by the University of Michigan College of Engineering. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the State of Michigan and their local communities, reflecting the core values of Abonmarche.
A Legacy of Excellence
With over 35 years in civil engineering, Chris has been instrumental in enhancing transportation, water, and sewer infrastructure across Michigan. His journey at Abonmarche, where he rose from project manager to President and CEO, has been pivotal to our growth and success. Under his leadership, we have expanded our reach, serving clients across Michigan and Indiana from multiple locations.
Community Commitment
Chris’s impact extends far beyond his engineering expertise. His dedication to community service began in his youth and continues to flourish today. He has held various leadership roles, including Chairman of the Benton Harbor Planning Commission, and served on zoning boards of appeals in Cadillac and St. Joseph. For the past 16 years, he has been the Treasurer for the St. Joseph Public Schools Board of Education, where his thoughtful decisions have positively influenced countless students and families.
His commitment to service has not gone unnoticed. For his extensive contributions, Chris has received the ACEC National Community Service award and the Merlin Hanson Exemplary Business Leader Award.
Voices of Support
Ronald Brenke, Executive Director of the ACEC of Michigan, praised Chris’s community involvement, stating, “Chris genuinely cares about issues affecting the quality of life for residents and is always willing to volunteer his time to further a cause.”
Rob Cleveland, President and CEO of Cornerstone Alliance, noted, “Cook has repeatedly put himself in the crosshairs for advancing all Berrien County residents. Under his leadership, Abonmarche has been at the forefront of Benton Harbor’s resurgence.”
Jeff Noel, former Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs at Whirlpool Corporation, commended Cook’s leadership qualities, highlighting his legacy of fairness and ability to unite people around shared goals.
Transformative Contributions
In addition to his community service, Chris has collaborated with the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy on process improvement initiatives, helping communities across the state reduce costs and access funding. His expertise with the State Revolving Loan Fund, Asset Management, and Capital Improvement Planning has made him a key player in these efforts.
As the current Managing Director of Harbor Shores Development, Chris has been vital in revitalizing Benton Harbor. The Harbor Shores project transformed over 500 acres of blighted property into a vibrant community, featuring a renowned Jack Nicklaus Signature golf course and new residential developments—demonstrating the profound impact civil engineering has on local economic growth.
An Inspiration for Future Engineers
Chris’s journey from a University of Michigan student to a leader in civil engineering serves as an inspiration for current and future engineers. His story reminds us all of the vital role civil engineers play in shaping our communities and improving lives.
We invite you to learn more about Chris Cook and his remarkable contributions to our community. For more information, visit the University of Michigan Alumni Awards or check out the Abonmarche Leadership page for insights into Chris’s impactful career.