Graduate Shows Dedication to Bellevue University Through Four Decades of Advocacy, Support
- Since graduating in 1986, Tracy Brown has remained a passionate supporter of Bellevue University, sharing its story and promoting its opportunities throughout the community.
- Brown embraced campus life through leadership roles in Student Senate, the Student Activities Board, student recruitment efforts, and other activities that helped shape the student experience.
- Nearly 40 years after graduation, Brown continues to visit campus regularly, connect with students and faculty, and serve as an ambassador for the University's impact on traditional, nontraditional, and military-affiliated learners.
Tracy Brown: A Living Example of BU's History
Tracy Brown is a Bellevue University alumnus, but her connection with the school includes so much more than that. Since graduating in 1986, she’s served as a passionate champion for the school’s mission, afrequent visitor and a living example of the school’s history.
Bellevue University celebrates its 60th anniversary this year, but the school was still known as Bellevue College when Brown attended in the 1980s. Coming from a military family, she recognized even back then what a unique environment the school offered for traditional and nontraditional students alike. “I always had my eyes set on going to Bellevue College,” she said. “It was five minutes from home, and you couldn’t beat the tuition.”
Taking Full Advantage of the College Experience
Brown said she wanted to make a difference. She jumped right in to get involved and pass along the opportunity to students who might benefit as well. She was vice president of the Student Senate from 1983-86, homecoming queen from 1983-84, president of the Student Activities Board, and was even featured in radio and print recruiting materials for the school.
She was also part of student efforts to choose John B. Muller as the organization’s new president in 1985. “He brought growth ideas to the table that were in line with what we wanted,” she said.
Brown earned an undergraduate degree, and during her educational journey, she said she loved learning from students coming from different walks of life. “I got to interact with both traditional and nontraditional students,” she said.
In addition, she found the faculty and staff to be incredibly supportive. When her father had a heart attack and later surgery her sophomore year, she was able to be there for her family without falling behind. “They knew me and knew I was a good student,” she said. “They had hearts of gold. Many of them were retired military like my father, and they worked with me to make sure I succeeded.”
I get the word out because I know it is a great option for traditional and nontraditional students, as well as military members. It’s a great place in our community to be part of the bigger picture. Bellevue University makes your academic dreams come true.
Staying Engaged Throughout the Years
Brown began her career in the time accounting and data analysis areas, later moving into education. Throughout the years, she has taught preK-12th grade.
Her connection with her alma mater has remained strong, and to this day she still tries to visit the school twice per week. In the early 1990s she even represented Bellevue University in the Bellevue spring parade through a partnership with the Bellevue Optimism Club.
When Brown comes to campus, she loves visiting with current students and faculty. She also regularly shops at the school’s bookstore. “I share my story and tell how it was, how Bellevue College was built upon to become Bellevue University,” she said. “They have really continued to turn the page to make it better.”
But she doesn’t stop there. She takes her knowledge of Bellevue University’s offerings into the community with her. “I get the word out because I know it is a great option for traditional students, nontraditional students and military members,” she said. “It’s a great place in our community to be part of the bigger picture.”
Brown said she often thinks of those who helped her earn her degree. “From the front door to the back, they have a heart,” she said. “Bellevue University makes your academic dreams come true.”
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with more than 70,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everywhere online with more than 85 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).