Blogs
ALUMNI HIGHLIGHT ZEL BROOK
Investing in a sustainable future for young artists
Cornish College of the Arts takes pride in its alumni who not only excel in their artistic pursuits but also demonstrate an unwavering commitment to giving back to the community. One such remarkable individual is Zel Brook, who graduated with a BFA in Art in 1996. Zel’s dedication to supporting aspiring artists has left a lasting mark on the college and its students.
When Zel (Class of ’93) was a student pursuing her degree in Visual Art, she noticed a common struggle among students – many were facing financial barriers when it came to accessing the resources necessary for their artistic endeavors. Determined to make a difference, Zel took action.
Instead of indulging in her daily latte fix from the café, Zel made a conscious decision to invest in an espresso machine and prepare her lattes at home. She recognized that by redirecting the funds she would typically spend on coffee, she could contribute meaningfully to the advancement of her alma mater and its students.
With the money saved from her homemade lattes, Zel established an endowment at Cornish College of the Arts. This serves as a vital resource for students, providing them with the financial support they need to access essential resources such as art supplies, equipment, and specialized training. Zel’s selfless generosity has empowered countless students to pursue their artistic aspirations without the burden of financial constraints
holding them back. Since it was created in 2005, the Zel Brook Endowment Scholarship has been awarded to 20 remarkable students.
Zel Brook epitomizes the spirit of giving back and making a tangible difference in the lives of others. Her dedication to supporting the next generation of artists reflects Cornish’s core values of creativity, community, and compassion. Through her actions, Zel continues to inspire fellow alumni, students, and the broader arts community to come together and create positive change.
Cornish College of the Arts is immensely grateful for Zel’s enduring commitment to empowering future generations of artists.
Her legacy of generosity will continue to impact the lives of students for years to come, ensuring that every aspiring artist has the opportunity to thrive and succeed.
In honoring Zel Brook, we celebrate not only her achievements but also the profound difference one individual can make through kindness, compassion, and a steadfast dedication to supporting others.
