For Steffanie Brown ’97, philanthropy is ingrained into who she is and how she carries herself through the world. Working in development for over 20 years, it was never of question of if she would support the University of West Georgia, but when and to what she would turn her attention to.
Brown knew for decades that she wanted to give back to UWG, and after soul searching and reflecting on loved ones, she decided to establish the Pathways to Possibility Endowment, which will support adult learners. While Brown was not an adult learner herself, she has witnessed friends go and return to school after starting families, and they have a special place in her heart due to the unique challenges they face.
“I have benefited from the generosity of others, and so, I’ve always strived to give back and make my little corner of the world the best place it can be,” Brown explained. “If I can make the world a little brighter, that’s what I’m going to do.”
Brown moved to Haralson County when she was in 7th grade and says that the area raised her, with people from the community taking her family under their wings as they settled in. Because of love for the area, Pathways to Possibility Endowment will be awarded first to residents of Haralson County and then to those in surrounding areas.
UWG awarded Brown its prestigious Presidential Scholarship, which she credits with her ability to attend college since it covered her tuition and fees. With less financial constraints, she was able to enjoy time outside of class with enriching student experiences. Since Brown was a commuter student, she would come to campus early and spend her days in the Humanities Building and Academic Quad connecting with students and faculty between classes. Brown was also heavily involved in choir, served as the captain of the first College Bowl team, and she even represented UWG in the Jeopardy College Tournament in 1996.
“We are so grateful for Steffanie and for the establishment of the Pathways to Possibility Endowment,” said Haley Jackson, assistant vice president for development. “This endowment is a testament to the powerful cycle of giving back and how generosity creates a ripple effect in our university community for generations.”
For more information about how you can impact UWG through an endowment, scholarship or annual giving, please visit UWG’s Give West page.
