Iowa State University named its 17th president. Who is David Cook?

Iowa State University has secured its 17th president after a nearly six-month search.

Iowa State and the Iowa Board of Regents announced Tuesday, Nov. 11 that North Dakota State University president David Cook will replace Wendy Wintersteen , ISU's first female president.

The Regents unanimously approved the hire shortly before 4 p.m. inside the Iowa State Memorial Union.

Cook, an Iowa State graduate and Ames native, was one of two finalists for the open presidency . He beat out Cornell's Benjamin Houlton .

Here's what you need to know about Iowa State University's next president :

Where is David Cook from?

Cook grew up in Ames. He was born at Mary Greeley Medical Center, attended Ames High School and earned his bachelor's degree from Iowa State .

Where did David Cook r