College can be an exciting but stressful time, particularly for first-generation students. Many have limited financial resources, which often requires them to take out hefty student loans or work multiple jobs to afford their degree. UNCG students persevere, but the uncertainty about making it to graduation looms.
Former Carolina Power & Light Executive Vice President Lynn Eury and his late wife, Faye, were no strangers to this financial challenge. Growing up in rural North Carolina during the Great Depression, money was often tight. Their parents – who never pursued higher education – knew a college degree could open greater opportunities for their children, and their families supported Faye’s and Lynn’s educational pursuits.
Recognizing the support and sacrifices others made for their success, the Eurys chose to pay that generosity forward. In 2006, they established the Faye Young Eury and Lynn W. Eury Scholarship in UNCG’s Bryan School of Business and Economics with a testamentary gift. The Eurys made additional contributions to endow the fund and support students during their lifetime. To date, the Eurys have supported 12 students during their undergraduate studies. One such student is marketing major and first-generation student Nyat Fesshaye. Complications with her federal financial aid application threatened her senior year, but the Eury Scholarship came as a lifeline, allowing her to enter her final year with confidence.
People like Lynn Eury demonstrate what amazing things happen when people give back.
— Nyat Fesshaye, senior marketing major
Although Faye Eury passed away in 2019, Lynn continues to support students at his wife’s alma mater. In addition to a second testamentary gift and a five-year pledge to their scholarship, Lynn made a gift to name the Faye Young Eury Conference and Events Room at the Bryan School in her memory. This gift will provide critical renovations and upgrades, as well as support the Blueprint Series – the Bryan School’s personal and professional development curriculum, designed to help students graduate with the employability skills needed to succeed in an ever-changing business landscape.
Lynn’s ongoing generosity ensures students continue to thrive at UNCG, regardless of their financial status. It’s a reality students like Nyat are grateful for.
By Michelle Danner-Graves