Wesleyan College Receives Record $6 Million Gift from Brown–Swearingen Family to Support Women’s Education and Leadership

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

MACON, GA — Wesleyan College today proudly announces a $6 million gift from Sylvia Maxwell Brown, Mary Beth Brown and Dennis Swearingen, and Stanford Brown, marking the largest one-time donation to the SHE WILL campaign—an ambitious $61 million initiative to empower women through education and leadership development.

This historic gift, made in honor of the late Harold Searcy “Buddy” Brown, establishes the Harold Searcy Brown Chair in Business and funds the renovation of a state-of-the-art classroom to support Wesleyan’s expanding business program.

“Wesleyan inspires us with its mission to educate women who lead with purpose. This gift is about giving back to the College that shaped who I am—and ensuring that future generations of women have access to the same opportunities,” said Mary Beth Swearingen, Class of 1989. “We believe deeply in Wesleyan’s commitment to empowering women to dream boldly, learn fearlessly, and make a difference in the world.” 

The Brown–Swearingen family’s relationship with Wesleyan spans more than 60 years and two generations. It began with Sylvia Maxwell Brown (Class of 1963) and continues through the steadfast support of her children, Mary Beth (Class of 1989) and Stanford Brown—both Trustees of Wesleyan College—and their families.

“Our family’s connection to Wesleyan is rooted in gratitude and belief in its future. We’ve seen firsthand how Wesleyan transforms lives and strengthens communities. This investment is both a tribute to that legacy and a commitment to the College’s continued growth. We want to help ensure Wesleyan remains a place where women discover their strengths and go on to lead with integrity and impact.” Stanford M Brown 

Harold “Buddy” Brown was a successful Georgia businessman and civic leader who played a key role in developing the state’s infrastructure through Butler Sand. Known for his integrity, work ethic, and generosity, his legacy will live on through students inspired by the educational spaces now bearing his name.

The newly named Harold Searcy Brown Classroom will seat up to 30 students and feature modern technology, updated furnishings, and accessibility features—providing a dynamic learning environment for the College’s growing business program.

“This generous gift from the Brown–Swearingen family will immediately enrich our students’ experience through the renovation of a cutting-edge business classroom,” said President Meaghan Blight. “More importantly, it establishes a lasting legacy of excellence through the Harold Searcy Brown Chair in Business—ensuring that generations of Wesleyan students are empowered with the education, mentorship, and leadership skills needed to thrive in a changing world.” 

“A big thank you to the Brown–Swearingen family for their extraordinary joint commitment to the campaign – now at $6 million! Their support touches almost every aspect of SHE WILL, from capital improvements to a myriad of programs that will ensure Wesleyan student success.  Let’s all be inspired by their generosity and devotion to Wesleyan and make our own commitment to the campaign.  Let’s all share in the responsibility of being sure our students graduate with the academic and experiential preparation necessary to excel.” Ruth Knox, SHE WILL Campaign Chair, Class of ‘75, former President of Wesleyan College 

About the SHE WILL Campaign

With $36 million raised toward its $61 million goal, SHE WILL is Wesleyan’s largest fundraising campaign in history. It focuses on three key areas:

• Pursue Her Path – Scholarships, faculty support, and enhanced student life.

• Have a Place to Call Home – Renovated residence halls and upgraded facilities.

• Find Her Voice – Reimagined leadership and community spaces, including Porter Gym.

  
  

The campaign is led by Ruth Knox (Chair) and Alexis Bighley, Class of 1967 (Vice Chair), and builds on Wesleyan’s nearly 200-year legacy as the world’s first college chartered to grant degrees to women.

“This campaign isn’t just about fundraising—it’s about changing lives,” said Bighley. “Every dollar is a commitment to the next generation of bold, confident women leaders.”

About Wesleyan College

Founded in 1836, Wesleyan College is the first institution in the world chartered to grant degrees to women. Committed to accelerating equality through rigorous academics, leadership training, and a close-knit campus community, Wesleyan continues to prepare women to thrive and lead in a rapidly changing world.