In 2003 Mrs. Brown endowed the Charles L. Brown Memorial Jefferson Scholarship in honor of her late husband, Charles L. Brown (Engr ’43).  The scholarship is designated for a student in the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) and has created a unique relationship between the School and the Jefferson Scholars Foundation.  “Charlie Brown exemplified Jeffersonian ideals as an ethical, intelligent and creative leader,” said SEAS Dean James Aylor at the time the scholarship was endowed.

James Villarrubia and Wayne Dell, who are both recipients of the Scholarship, have developed a special bond with Mrs. Brown.  Being a part of the Jefferson Scholar community and getting to know their benefactor has helped them develop a deeper appreciation for Thomas Jefferson’s call to develop qualities of leadership, scholarship and citizenship.  “Scholarship is such an important aspect,” said Dell.  “But if you don’t commit to something for the University, you’re not leaving a lasting effect – as in the way that the generosity of Mrs. Brown supported James, me and engineering at U.Va.”