W. Donald Cooke joined the Cornell University faculty in 1951 and advanced quickly through the ranks. He published 39 papers in Analytical Chemistry through 1970. He has held a series of administrative posts [Associate Dean of Arts and Sciences (1962-64), Dean of the Graduate School (1964-73); Vice President for Research (1969-83); Acting Provost (1974-74); Acting Chair of Chemistry Department. He was an active and effective member of the Cornell University Senate (1970-74). Because of his love of teaching he has continued an active teaching role throughout his career, even past his retirement in 1987.