Ronnie Brewer Makes Gift to Fulbright College

Ronnie Brewer explains why he chose to make a $50,000 gift to the African American studies program.

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Former University of Arkansas Razorbacks standout basketball player Ronnie Brewer, currently playing for the Utah Jazz, gave $50,000 to the African American studies program in the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences. The gift will support scholarships for students enrolled in the program who are also interested in the journalism field.

Brewer said he wanted to support students in this program because of the program’s vast impact on the campus. “This program is really up and coming, and it will attract more minorities to the University of Arkansas,” he said. “Our state is diverse, and we need to reflect that on our campus.”

The African American studies program was established in 1969, and was reinvigorated in 2004 when it received targeted funding. Charles Robinson, director of the program, came to the university at that time, and enrollment in the program has since tripled.

“Ronnie’s gift to our program shows his commitment to the future of this institution, and also to our diversity goals,” Robinson said. “I am grateful for his generosity and I look forward to awarding the scholarship money. It really can make all the difference for many of our students.”

Another reason Brewer chose to make a gift is to demonstrate his love for his state and for his university. “I know how great Arkansas is,” he said. “You have to know where you’re from to know where you’re going. And, I want to represent my roots and my upbringing to the best of my ability. Giving back to the state’s university is one way I think I can do that. It shows that I am a very proud Arkansan and I believe in the future of the University of Arkansas.”

“Fulbright College is proud to have this relationship with one of Arkansas’ greatest,” said Bill Schwab, interim dean of Fulbright College. “So early in his career, Ronnie understands the importance and value of giving back. When alumni and friends give, our university makes great strides, and this gift is no exception.”

Brewer played three seasons with the Razorbacks before being drafted as the 14^th overall pick in the 2006 NBA draft.

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