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.”