About Lois Anne Cooke

Lois Anne Dryer Cooke was born in Buffalo, New York, and attended Buffalo State Teachers College where she joined Alpha Sigma Tau in 1932. Following graduation, she began work as an administrative secretary and worked at the same firm for the business’s vice president until she retired in 1974.

Lois was an exemplary leader in her professional and personal life and was often recognized for her contributions. She was a charter member of the Buffalo chapter of the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IIAP). She served as president and chairwoman of the annual Buffalo Fashion Show when in 1952, she was named the organization’s National Secretary of the Year. The same year, she received the Ideal Career Girl Award during the Exposition of Women’s Arts and Industries. In 1985, she was named Outstanding Member of the Year of the Buffalo Chapter of IIAP. And in 2003, Mrs. Cooke was the first member to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Buffalo Chapter IIAP.

Lois was a life member and board member of the former Auxiliary to the Pharmacists Society of the State of New York. She also served as president and board member of the Auxiliary to the Pharmacists Association of Western New York. She also was a member of Betsy Ross Levant Chapter 695, Order of the Eastern Star, Business and Professional Women Retirees, and Friends of the Amherst Symphony Orchestra. She was an honorary life member of the American Association of University Women.

In addition, she was a supporter of the Pharmacy Museum at the University at Buffalo and helped provide scholarships for Alpha Sigma Taus through the establishment of the Lois Anne Cooke Scholarship fund.

Lois exemplified leadership in her professional life and community. The tributes made on her behalf by members of the Buffalo Alumnae Chapter, family, and friends have made a lasting impact to scholarship recipients. The awards are based on academic performance and service to chapter and community, a befitting memory of Ms. Cooke’s contributions to Alpha Sigma Tau and beyond.