Lorie McCowan ’96
Lorie McCowan’s journey—from earning a full academic and athletic scholarship at Norfolk State University to serving in executive leadership at Bright Hope Capital—reflects unwavering dedication, vision, and service.
Her accomplishments exemplify the transformative power of education, determination, and purpose-driven leadership. Through a dynamic professional career and deep philanthropic commitment to Norfolk State University (NSU), McCowan demonstrates how compassion paired with strategic vision can create a lasting, multigenerational impact.
A 1996 graduate of NSU’s School of Business, McCowan earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and went on to build an impressive career marked by pivotal leadership roles. She currently serves as Chief Operating Officer of Bright Hope Capital, LLC, where she oversees operations across its subsidiaries, including Bright Hope Construction (formerly R.J. Leeper Construction) and Bright Hope Hauling. In March 2025, she was appointed President of Bright Hope Construction, guiding the company through record-setting revenue growth and a successful strategic rebrand.
McCowan’s commitment to Norfolk State University runs deep. In 2017, she established the Lorie McCowan Endowment, providing scholarships for accounting students from single-parent households—underscoring her belief in expanding access to opportunity for those who need it most. Her generosity and leadership earned her induction into the prestigious Lyman Beecher Brooks Society, recognizing donors whose lifetime contributions exceed $100,000.
As President of the Norfolk State University Foundation, McCowan played a pivotal role in the historic Now Is Our Time campaign, which raised more than $144 million, surpassing its original $90 million goal. Her leadership has helped position NSU for sustained growth and success, ensuring future generations of Spartans are empowered to thrive.
From boardrooms to classrooms, Lorie McCowan embodies leadership with purpose. Her story is one of coming full circle—returning to uplift the institution that helped shape her life. Through her vision, service, and philanthropy, she is building a legacy that will resonate for generations to come.