Middle Tennessee State University alumni Casey (’08, ’15, ’24) and Courtney Brown (’12) have chosen a meaningful way to honor Casey’s late parents, Elkin and Billye Ann Brown.
Through the creation of the Elkin and Billye Ann Brown Memorial Scholarship, they are ensuring that future students will have the support they need to pursue their academic dreams.
“Elkin and Billye loved MTSU and the community here. It was the perfect way for us to honor them both,” Courtney said.
Casey and Courtney share a deep bond with the University and established this scholarship to honor the memory of Casey’s parents and provide needed assistance to a deserving student majoring in English.
“Elkin and Billye loved MTSU and the community here. It was the perfect way for us to honor them both,” said Courtney.
Understanding the challenges of balancing school and work, Casey and Courtney hope to assist students, particularly non-traditional students, in accomplishing their academic goals.
Elkin and Billye lived in Womack Lane Apartments on campus while Elkin completed his M.A. in the MTSU English Department, and the couple welcomed their son, Casey, in 1985.
After earning his degree, Elkin began a career as an instructor of English at Volunteer State Community College and Cumberland University, where he taught until his death in 2008.
Billye also attended MTSU, completing coursework in Sociology and Communications while working full-time in a variety of roles prior to becoming a mother. Upon returning to the workforce, she had a long, successful career across multiple industries, including stints with Cracker Barrel and Altria, until her death in 2024.
The Browns’ time at MTSU and in Murfreesboro was among their fondest memories. What they lacked in resources, they had in abundance in family and community.
After living on campus as a baby, Casey earned his B.S. (’08), M.Ed. (’15), and Ed.D. (’24) at MTSU. He met his wife, Courtney (’12) as an undergraduate student on campus, where they both now work. Casey serves as the Dual Enrollment Program Coordinator and Courtney is the Director of Annual Giving, Stewardship, and Donor Relations at MTSU.
By establishing this scholarship, the Browns are both honoring the legacy of Elkin and Billye and investing in the success of future Blue Raiders.
To learn how you can create an endowed scholarship or memorial gift, visit development.mtsu.edu/types-of-gifts.
– Brian Delaney, bdelaney@mtsu.edu