Leslie Caldwell ’80, ’83 MA & Betty Conley Brooks ’52

One of the most rewarding aspects of attending a university is meeting the peers and professors who shape educational experiences. Professors have the opportunity to touch the lives of many students, leaving an indelible impression.

“I’ve spoken with hundreds of alumni across decades, and for many of them, Stuart Allen was the professor they remember the best,” says Mary Ellen Boelhower, executive director of development for UNCG’s Bryan School of Business and Economics.

Dr. Stuart Allen served the University for more than 30 years as professor, administrator, and mentor. He served as the director of graduate studies in the Master’s of Economics Program from 1992-96 and as chair of the Department of Economics from 1993-2013. For most of his career, however, Dr. Allen was a beloved professor. Thousands of students have benefitted from his courses and his excitement for economics. Dr. Allen’s ability to make economic theory and practice accessible also made him a popular commentator on regional, national, and global economics. Particularly during local and presidential elections, Dr. Allen provided crucial insights into how potential economic shifts may affect society.

Leslie Caldwell ’80, ’83 MA remembered Dr. Allen not only as his student but also as a colleague and faculty leader to her husband, Dr. Bruce Caldwell. Having seen the enormous effect Dr. Allen had on her, her husband, and countless other students and colleagues, Caldwell decided to enlist the help of fellow alumni to establish a scholarship in Allen’s honor. The Stuart D. Allen Scholarship in Economics recognizes Dr. Allen’s many contributions to the field through research, public service, and teaching.

Betty Conley Brooks ’52 was happy to support Caldwell’s efforts. While she never had the opportunity to study under Dr. Allen, she knew how important he was to her alma mater. The personal touches he included with every interaction and the time he spent with her during her campus visits inspired Brooks to become one of the Bryan School of Business and Economics’ staunchest supporters.

Dr. Allen is grateful to be honored through such an impactful gift:

“Many students are saddled with debt during the years they are earning a degree. The Stuart Allen Scholarship provides an opportunity to support several undergraduate economics majors who are also excellent prospects for our MA program in applied economics. The tremendous response of faculty, staff, students, and friends is overwhelming. I can only take this opportunity to again thank them for their support and applaud the hard work of the recipients.”

Professors have the power to influence college students and shape not only their college experience but also their future. Dr. Allen’s impact on economics, the Bryan School, and the countless students he taught will last for years to come.

Story by Michelle Danner-Groves, Donor Relations