Sutton High School GDST is proud to announce the opening of the Dr Louise Cooke Science Laboratory, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to the memory of distinguished alumna, scientist, and benefactor Dr Louise Cooke (1953–2023).
Dr Cooke, who attended Sutton High from 1962 to 1971, went on to study Biochemistry at the University of Bristol, earning her PhD in Plant Pathology in 1978. Her remarkable career spanned decades of pioneering research and academic leadership. She served with the Department of Agriculture for Northern Ireland’s Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute (AFBI) in Belfast and held a long-standing academic role at Queen’s University Belfast, where she rose to become Head of the Plant Health Section. She also held an Honorary Lectureship in the School of Biological Sciences from 2008 until 2022.
Even after her retirement from AFBI in 2015, Dr Cooke remained deeply engaged in the scientific community. She co-supervised PhD students, contributed to the Plant Pathology journal’s editorial board, and advised AsiaBlight, a collaborative network addressing late blight in Asia. She was also a private member of FRAG-UK, the UK Fungicide Resistance Action Group.
Beyond her professional achievements, Louise was known for her warmth, generosity, and quiet determination. A long-time resident of Newtownbreda on the outskirts of Belfast, she shared her home with her beloved cat Brandy. She was a passionate supporter of the Ulster Orchestra, a devoted church choir singer, and a lover of theatre and travel. She remained closely connected to Sutton High School, helping to organise the Class of 1971’s 50th reunion, which sadly she was unable to attend.
Dr Cooke’s final gift to Sutton High School is a transformative one. Her generous legacy has enabled the creation of a cutting-edge science laboratory that will inspire generations of young women to pursue their passions in STEM. A commemorative plaque in the lab reads:
In Memory of Dr Louise Cooke (1953–2023)
Alumna of Sutton High School GDST 1962–1971
Biochemist, Plant Pathologist, Mentor
With heartfelt gratitude for her generous gift, this science laboratory was made possible by Dr Louise Cooke. Her lifelong dedication to research and education has left an enduring legacy—empowering future generations of young women in science to dream boldly and explore bravely.
Her spirit lives on in every discovery made within these walls.
As we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr Louise Cooke, we are reminded of the power of education, mentorship, and generosity. Her story is a beacon for all Sutton High students—past, present, and future.