After returning home from a tour in Afghanistan, retired U.S. Marine Corps pilot David Deep hit the throttle on a new mission — one that started with buying a boat.

“Getting on the water was my way of getting back into normal life,” Deep recalled. 

For the Huntsville, Alabama native, watersports became more than just a hobby; it was therapy after 28 years of military service. Deep’s journey began at 18 years old when he enrolled in Auburn’s ROTC program.

“ROTC became my fraternity at Auburn,” he said.

By 1988, Deep had earned his degree in aviation management and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps. From there, his career soared—logging over 250 combat flight hours during deployments to Somalia, the Persian Gulf and beyond.

“Honored to do it,” he said.

Then came Sept. 11, 2001. Deep was back in action, flying Bell AH-1 Cobra helicopters in Afghanistan. When the dust finally settled, a new calling surfaced for the naval aviator. 

After striking up a friendship with a fellow Marine who was a double amputee, Deep sought to share his passion for the water and wondered if someone without lower limbs could learn to wakeboard. The answer wasn’t just yes; it was life changing.

“It wasn’t about being on the water,” Deep said. “It was about the relationship we built."

That experience led Deep to start Wake for Warriors (WFW), a nonprofit grassroots movement that’s grown into a nationwide lifeline for injured veterans. Since its founding in 2012, the organization hosts more than 50 multi-day events across more than 20 states, serving over 600 veterans each year.

“It’ s basically a gateway to connect veterans with each other,” Deep said.

Deep, who retired from the military in 2016, today serves as a first officer on the Airbus A350 with Delta Air Lines. Between international flights, he coordinates WFW events from his home in Salem, Alabama. He relies on a team of volunteers who lend their boats and their time, offering up their houses and even some delicious southern vittles.

“Breakfast is not a jelly roll or donuts,” Deep joked. “It’s 80-year-old ladies bringing in their custom grits and biscuits that have been blessed.”

Aside from catching waves, WFW retreats break down barriers and build new bonds for those who have sacrificed so much for our country.

“I tell them, ‘Don’ t be afraid to tell your story, because it might help somebody that may be behind you in their journey of healing,’” Deep said.

Enter U.S. Air Force veteran Tyler Densford. The Olive Branch, Mississippi native served in the 155th Air Guard Unit in Memphis. In the summer of 2016, he fell 40 feet from a Blackhawk helicopter during a training mission. The accident paralyzed him from the chest down.  

Months later, Densford arrived at a WFW event carrying more than physical scars. He was searching for hope and healing. Alongside his loyal service dog, Able, he discovered a new community who lifted him higher than any wake ever could.

“My life changed because of the impact that Wake for Warriors had on me,” Densford said. “Now I get to share that experience with other people and help them have a better life.”

WFW has extended beyond combat veterans to include first responders and adaptive sports participants. Recently, the group hosted Auburn’s Wheelchair Basketball team for a challenging day of wakeboarding on nearby Lake Harding.

Thanks to a lineup of generous sponsors, WFW retreats are free for veterans and their families. Visit their website to get plugged into the mission!

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Auburn’s Hey Day is more than just a campus tradition — it’s a timeless greeting that’s been passed down for generations.

“Hey Day is such a cool event,” said Owen Beaverstock, Auburn’s Student Government Association (SGA) president. “It’s the first thing I volunteered for when I was a freshman.”

The annual Hey Day event began in 1947 to welcome back World War II soldiers, when the SGA pushed for a day to unite campus. Nearly 80 years later, it has grown into a beloved custom of handing out nametags and encouraging everyone to say “hey” to each other.

“I love talking to strangers,” joked Parman. “You’re engaging in real conversation that reinforces the values of the Auburn Family." 

The 78th Hey Day will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 15, and will include live music, food, t-shirts, and a Social at Hey Day Market.

Parham said it’s a simple concept that can have a big impact.

“You could be the only one who speaks to that person this week or asks how their day is going,” she said.

Both Beaverstock and Parman consider it an incredible privilege to serve the student body.

Parman, a global studies major in the College of Human Sciences, said her role as 2025-26 Miss Auburn is like having a full-time job, a tradition that dates back to 1934.

“We do the ‘Empower Her’ women's leadership dinner, read to kids in schools, combat food insecurity, and engage with civic leaders,” she said.

Already in her tenure, Parman started an endowed scholarship for future Miss Auburns, and made outreach visits to the Auburn Bee Center, E.W. Fisheries Center and AU Singers. 

Like Parman, Beaverstock serves as an advocate for students, attending every Auburn Board of Trustees meeting as a non-voting member.

A double major in business and political science in the Harbert College of Business, Beaverstock was elected in February to lead SGA. Since then, funding has been secured for 10 new security shuttle drivers and 24/7 security on campus. He’s working with the City of Auburn to have a three-way traffic stop light installed at the crosswalk on Magnolia Avenue, between 320 West Mag apartments and the Ginn Concourse, to curb student pedestrian safety concerns. Most recently, trustees backed SGA’s concept to build a new, six-story, 680-bed dormitory on the Cambridge Hall property.

“We think that's a huge win for our students and a great spot, too,” he said.

Beaverstock said his advice to younger peers is to get plugged in — and early.

“One of the coolest things we do is the Expansion (EXP) Branch of SGA,” he said. “You can volunteer for Hey Day, CREED Day or football game shaker distribution. In the spring, we’ll have applications for year-round SGA roles.” 

Just like their post-war era predecessors, both Beaverstock and Parman will be leading the charge this week at Hey Day — greeting all with a spirit that is not afraid.

“It just shows the human touch that makes Auburn so special,” said Parman. 

Check out our Everything Auburn Podcast Hub here!

With a name like Robyn, some might say you’re destined to soar through life, working with all things winged and wonderful.

“Spelled slightly differently, but yes, my life is absolutely for the birds,” said Robyn Miller.

Miller, who was named director of the Auburn University Raptor Center (AURC) this past January, first came to the Plains a decade ago to study 19th century English literature. While earning her doctorate, she volunteered at the center.

“I watched my best friend return a barred owl back to the wild and I was immediately enraptured,” remembered Miller.

Equally as strong as her bird puns is Miller’s goal to strengthen AURC’s conservation, education and rehabilitation efforts. A licensed falconer and naturalist, she’s honored to return to the place that first sparked her avian passion.

“When I saw this job open up, I saw an incredible opportunity to give back to the facility that started it all,” she said.

Meanwhile, if AURC’s administrative coordinator Andrew Hopkins looks familiar, it’s probably because he is.

“You have no idea how many Christmas cards I've been on over the years,” joked Hopkins.

Hopkins began his journey with AURC in 2007 while an undergraduate student. By 2011, he had earned his bachelor's degree in zoology. He, along with a slew of AURC’s dedicated volunteers, works tirelessly during the summer months at Jordan-Hare Stadium training the center’s eagles for their iconic pre-game flights.

“We're just out there winging it every day, every single day,” laughed Hopkins.  “Seriously though, lots of repetition and positive reinforcement. They literally start drooling when they see that field.”

Together, Hopkins and Miller spearhead the center’s day-to-day operations in partnership with Auburn’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

“We provide rehabilitation for about 300 injured or orphaned raptors each year and also travel extensively across the Southeast teaching about conservation,” Miller said. 

That mission has taken on a milestone this year as AURC celebrates 25 years of pre-game eagle flights in Jordan-Hare Stadium – a tradition many argue is the greatest in all of college football.

“There's nothing like the energy in Jordan-Hare on gameday, especially when those eagles take flight,” Miller said. 

This football season, Aurea, a golden eagle and War Eagle VIII, and Independence, a bald eagle, are keeping the 25-year tradition alive. The anniversary is being celebrated with a philanthropic campaign for center improvements in hopes of turning it into a more zoological-type facility.

“This is an invitation for the community and the Auburn Family to rally behind this tradition,” Miller said. “We're trying to shine a light on how those War Eagle flights really carry on their wings the entire Raptor Center.”

The center also continues to host its popular Football, Fans and Feathers events on Fridays at 4 p.m. CT before every home football game.

The bonus?  At the show’s conclusion, they bring all the birds back out for attendees to get plenty of new family photos. 

And who doesn't need a good Christmas card picture, right?

Check out our Everything Auburn Podcast Hub here!

There’s nothing more rewarding for Bobby Woodard than watching the Auburn campus come alive. 

“We have over 34,000 students, and it's my job to be their chief advocate,” said Woodard.

Woodard embraces his role as Senior Vice President for Student Affairs with dedication and enthusiasm.

“I get paid never to leave college,” joked Woodard.  “But seriously, every day we can have input on how somebody is going to set a trajectory for their life to make it better.”

Woodard, a North Carolina native, is entering his twelfth year on the Plains. He’s previously held leadership roles at East Carolina University, University of Georgia and University of Central Florida.

“This is my fourth university in four states,” said Woodard. “After I interviewed here, I called my wife and said, ‘it's just a little different.’  Auburn will give you what you put into it, and it’s a great place.” 

Guiding thousands of 18-to-22-year-olds is no small feat. Woodard understands the profound influence he has on each student's journey.

“You're 18 years old coming here, and no matter where you came from, you get to decide where you go and what you become,” said Woodard.  “That is what's so important.” 

To help students discover their path, Woodard and Auburn University’s Office of Student Involvement created The First 56 – eight weeks of special programming, events and initiatives to promote student engagement. Organized by the University Program Council, The First 56 starts at move-in and runs through October. The program involves 500+ student organizations and nearly 400 events – all designed to help students find their niche.

“Research will tell you the first 56 days is when you begin to feel part of a campus or any town that you go to,” said Woodard. “If students have a good social network, they’re likely to perform better in the classroom."

If there’s one thing Woodard enjoys just as much as serving the Auburn student body, it’s a visit to the restaurant chain Waffle House.

“It's easy, it's quick and I like to people watch,” he said.

Fueled by Woodard's passion for all things scattered, smothered and covered, Waffles with Woodard was born in 2014. In just six short years, this event has become a beloved tradition as part of The First 56 with Waffle House food trucks dishing out mouthwatering waffles and bacon.

“You would think that we were giving out free tuition,” Woodard laughed.

This year Waffles with Woodard will be held on Wed., August 20, starting at 8:30 a.m. on the Haley Concourse.

“It's one of the best days,” said Woodard. “I get to go out there for about four hours, see the students and talk to them. We want to know who you are.”

In addition to Waffles with Woodard, other signature events scheduled as part of The First 56 include a Block Party, Concert with Joshua Bassett, Casino Night, Convocation, an Involvement Fair, Pizza & Popsicles with the President and much more.

Students can view The First 56 Calendar of Events here or follow @auinvolve on Instagram for updates. They can also visit the AUInvolve website for a complete list of student organizations and activities to discover their path on the Plains and beyond.

Check out our Everything Auburn Podcast Hub here!

As the old saying goes, being in the right place at the right time has its benefits. 

This couldn't be truer for Auburn University's Asim Ali, who seems to have a knack for seizing opportunities. 

“I feel like I was made for this moment,” said Ali. “The vowels in my first name and my last name are both ‘AI.’"

As Executive Director of the Biggio Center for the Enhancement of Teaching and Learning, Ali oversees a team of more than 90 professionals. Their main mission – provide professional development programs, services and resources to enhance instructional innovation.

“At the heart of what we do is educating and empowering faculty, staff and students to do their best work possible," said Ali.

At nine years old, Ali moved with his family from New Jersey to Alabama after his father was hired at Tuskegee University to help spearhead the college’s aerospace engineering program. 

“I remember telling my cousins that we're moving to a place called Alabama,” Ali recalled. “They were like, ‘where is that?’” 

In Auburn, Ali flourished.

He graduated from Auburn High School and went on to earn his undergraduate degree in software engineering at Auburn. He took a full-time position in 2004 as an information technology specialist in Auburn’s College of Education. He held that role for ten years, during which he earned his master’s in information systems management and a Ph.D. in adult education.

Eleven years ago, Ali founded Auburn Online for enhancing online and hybrid teaching methods. This initiative proved to be exceptionally timely when COVID-19 struck in 2020.

“After the pandemic, then right along came AI,” Ali said.

Today, Ali co-leads work on artificial intelligence (AI) for the Office of the Provost.  

“We can't ignore it, it's going to be here,” said Ali. “So, let's be dang good at it – that's the approach we're taking.” 

Thanks to the partnership with Auburn’s Office of Information Technology, the Biggio Center is fully funded to build a framework for how to engage the entire campus on AI research, infrastructure, ethics and cultural impact.

Ali says the Auburn Creed with its emphasis on human touch uniquely positions the land-grant institution to be a groundbreaking leader in defining the use of AI.

“We don't want a chatbot replacing people – that's not Auburn, that's not who we are or how we operate,” he said.

Numerous Auburn instructors and students are taking full advantage of AI technology in virtually every college. The Biggio Center has created Teaching With AI and How To AI courses and has even launched a new AI course for K – 12. They’ve also developed a course for the Southeastern Conference AI Consortium, making it available for all 16 universities in the SEC to use, as well as the Alabama Community College system.

For Ali, his job remains all about paving the way for students and colleagues to blaze their own trail to success – one byte at a time.

“It’s a blessing to be at this institution that I love, working alongside incredibly talented people who are invested in the work they're doing,” he said.

Visit Auburn’s Biggio Center website for a list of AI resources.

Check out our Everything Auburn Podcast Hub here!

If you ever find yourself in a fight for equity and opportunity, Texas-born Dr. Christine Drew is exactly who you’d want in your corner.

"I'm a fighter, I'm an advocate," she said. "The thing that will keep you going is the thing that breaks your heart."

For Drew, that "thing" was watching students with intellectual disabilities face unnecessary barriers. Instead of accepting the status quo, she turned frustration into action. 

Now a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst and Assistant Professor in Auburn University's College of Education, Drew has been guiding students since 2019. By 2020, she became the Faculty Research Advisor for the EAGLES Program—a groundbreaking initiative that gives students with intellectual disabilities a true college experience.

“I sort of got going in the fall of 2020 and just never looked back,” Drew said.

Started in 2018, EAGLES (Education to Accomplish Growth in Life Experiences for Success) is one of only 300 programs nationwide that provides students with intellectual disabilities access to academics, clubs, health and wellness and social opportunities—the full breadth of university life.

"Auburn is an amazing university," Drew said. "EAGLES offers two and four year options. The students follow their own path of interest and can even earn food handlers’ licenses."

As Drew worked with EAGLES students, she noticed a major challenge: the transition to independent living. That’s why she teamed up with fellow special education advocate Kristin Lombardi to co-author Spectrum of Independence – a  book designed to give parents practical tools for maximizing the independence of children with autism, intellectual disabilities, or other forms of neurodiversity.

"These parents have been fighting for their kids since day one," Drew said. "We want to give them resources to help their child thrive."

The practical book focuses on task analysis, breaking down daily lifestyle tasks into manageable micro steps, helping kids take ownership of their routines. Targeting children ages 8 to 11, Drew’s book emphasizes starting early—because building independence at home opens doors for education, employment and social opportunities later on.

"If a student arrives at college knowing how to shower, brush their teeth, make a snack and get to the bus stop, their world expands exponentially," said Drew.

Parents of neurodiverse students interested in applying for the EAGLES program can learn more at EAGLES Preview Days, scheduled for July 16 and September 16 this year.

Spectrum of Independence is available locally at Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers, on Publisher Guilford Press' website and on Amazon.

"I join the parents in the fight," Drew said. "The more parents who have this book, the more empowered they'll be—and that keeps me going."

Check out our Everything Auburn Podcast Hub here!

On Auburn University’s campus, not all heroes walk on two feet. Sometimes, they come with four paws, a cold nose and a warm heart.

“They’ve got all the credentials,” said Dr. Doug Hankes, who heads up the university’s animal assisted therapy program, appropriately nicknamed the Dogtors.

That program plays an instrumental role in Auburn’s Student Counseling & Psychological Services (SCPS) – a department in student affairs serving as the primary mental health counseling center for undergraduate and graduate students.

SCPS’s four-legged team of Dogtors, including Dr. Rooster, Dr. Nessie, Dr. Eve and Dr. Winston, can often be found spreading joy to students across campus, rescuing them from the stress that often comes with college life.

“We currently have four Dogtors on staff,” said Hankes. “Three of them are retired detection dogs.”

In collaboration with SCPS, the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Canine Performance Sciences team re-trained the three dogs to become therapy dogs and donated them to SCPS.

Now retired from their days of sniffing out danger, the Dogtors have redirected their keen noses to providing comfort through group and individual therapy sessions with students.

“We call them our mental health ambassadors,” explained Hankes.

Hankes is finishing his 27th year on the Plains. He graduated from Auburn with his bachelor’s in physical education before heading to the University of Texas to complete his master’s in sports psychology. He completed his Ph.D. in counseling psychology from the University of North Texas in 1996. After a stint at the University of Tennessee, Hankes returned to Auburn in 1998. For the past 20 years, Hankes has been the executive director of SCPS. He also serves as Auburn Athletics' executive director of counseling and sport psychology.

Hankes has seen firsthand the remarkable expansion of on-campus mental health services. Today, there are more than 30 mental health care professionals on staff at SCPS.

“How we've grown is just a tribute to our administrators who realized we need to take care of Auburn students and their mental health,” Hankes said.

With May marking Mental Health Awareness Month, Hankes and his team of Dogtors will be hitting the ground running. This month, they’ll kick off their Camp War Eagle Parent Run and Walk campus tours, welcoming hundreds of incoming freshmen parents. SCPS will continue hosting their Get Moov’in Walks twice weekly during Fall and Spring semesters. The Dogtors will also be on hand at many mental health awareness events throughout the year, promoting the benefits of good self-care.

For Hankes the most rewarding part of his and the Dogtors’ job is seeing students heal and thrive.

“It's the best job ever,” he said. “You get to see people change. You get to see people get better."

SCPS has two locations on campus: in the AU Medical Clinic and and in Haley Center. Students can walk-in any time and be seen. There is no charge for any of their services. Dogtors are at both locations, always ready to greet visitors with a firm tail-wag. 

If you or someone you know is in a mental health crisis, it's crucial to seek immediate help. Visit the SPCS website or call the counseling center at (334) 844-5123.

Check out our Everything Auburn Podcast Hub here!

Julia Wiard’s Auburn journey is a rollercoaster ride of unexpected twists and turns.

Growing up in Selma, Alabama, she was a die-hard fan of the orange and blue, thanks to her dad and grandparents who are all Auburn University alumni.

“We grew up really loving Auburn,” explained Wiard.

But in her senior year of high school, Wiard's rebel spirit led her to seek a different path.

“It was the most rebellious thing I’ve ever done,” recalled Wiard.  “I thought I needed a different experience, and needed to prove that I could do it.”

Full of determination, Wiard ventured out of state to earn her bachelor’s degree in educational psychology from Mississippi State University and later her master’s in college student personnel administration from the University of Central Arkansas.

 “It helped me build independence as a leader and learn more about myself,” she said. 

However, the thought of returning to her Auburn roots always lingered in the back of Wiard’s mind. And sixteen years ago, she did just that.

“I really can't take all the credit for it,” Wiard said. “My husband Nick saw a job opening at Auburn he thought would be perfect for me and urged me to apply.” 

Wiard ended up accepting the position, relocating with her husband and two young children to Auburn in 2009.  After a stint in student affairs, she has served as the instructor and coordinator for Auburn's Leadership Minor program since 2011.

“I had the opportunity to start teaching one class in the leadership minor, and then one class turned into two classes,” recalled Wiard. “Eventually it turned into the opportunity to direct the minor and teach both the intro and the capstone courses.”

The Leadership Minor program is part of Auburn’s University College, which is under the Office of the Provost. When Wiard began teaching in the minor, there was only one student enrolled. Today the program has well over 100 students at any given time that are declared in the minor.

In the Leadership Minor, students can tailor their coursework to complement any major. Courses on problem solving, decision making and civic engagement draw students from all majors and disciplines. It’s that diversity that benefits every student who signs up.

“Some come into class haven't really having that organizational experience yet where they've gotten to think about what kind of leader they want to be,” explained Wiard. “The great thing about leadership classes is there something you can use instantly in your student organization, in your job, your internship or your athletic team." 

Over the years, Wiard has worked many student organizations to provide leadership development, including College of Liberal Arts Career Development, Greek Life and Auburn Athletics. Last summer, she led a study abroad leadership class in Madrid, Spain.

Student interest in Auburn’s Leadership Minor program has grown by leaps and bounds leading to the expansion of course offerings next year.

“We’re going to offer more sections of the intro course to allow more students to get into the minor,” said Wiard.

Wiard, who is consistently ranked by students as one of Auburn’s top professors, maintains it is building relationships that make her job worthwhile.  

She ensures her students don’t just learn about leadership—they live it.

“I do love those big moments when a student runs for something or they apply for something and they email me to let me know they got the job,” she said.  “It's cool to get to be part of their experience.”

Learn more about Auburn’s Leadership Minor program here.

Check out our Everything Auburn Podcast Hub here!

Auburn University senior Abbie Stockard is still in a state of shock when she thinks about being crowned Miss America 2025.

“When they got down to three people standing, I was like, ‘holy moly, what is going on?’” recalled Stockard.  “Then they called my name.  It was at that moment my entire life changed.” 

This past January, the 22-year-old Vestavia Hills, Alabama native beat 51 contestants to become the 104th Miss America.  Stockard began entering pageants as a freshman at Auburn with hopes of earning enough money to pay her way through college.

“It really all started because I was looking to relieve a financial burden and get some scholarships,” said Stockard. “Then I found out I just loved the Miss America organization and everything it stood for.” 

The Miss America program has been around since 1921. It allows participants to acquire lifelong skills, cultivate service initiatives and engage within their communities.  Miss America’s four pillars are style, service, scholarship and success – attributes Stockard takes to heart.  

“I think people really value authenticity, and they like someone who is just going to be real and relatable and not this perfect pageant queen,” said Stockard.

Stockard is the fourth Alabama woman to win Miss America and the first in 20 years.

“It's nice for little girls to look at Miss America and know it is attainable,” said Stockard. “Hopefully, I'm a good example of that.”

Stockard will spend the next seven months traveling the nation inspiring women and advocating for the American Heart Association’s Go RED for Women initiative along with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. She serves as a National Brand Ambassador for Cystic Fibrosis (CF), using her platform to bring hope to the more than 15 million Americans impacted by CF.

“My best friend Maddie was born with this disease and currently there is no cure,” said Stockard. “Growing up, I saw the devastating effects this disease took on her physical and mental health, and I made a promise that I would do everything in my power to fight for her and for others who have CF.  Being Miss America has opened so many doors.”

After Stockard completes her reign in September, she plans to return to Auburn’s College of Nursing this fall to finish up her degree. Her goal?  Make a big impact in the medical field.

“I grew up in a medical family, so I knew it was something I was always interested in,” said Stockard. “When I started competing in pageants, I found out that I have a heart for service. I truly have the most fulfillment when I'm giving of myself to others, and being a nurse, you're doing just that.” 

Thanks to winning nearly $90,000 in tuition scholarships, Stockard will graduate from Auburn completely debt-free.

“My dream is to get one-to-two years of critical care experience in the ICU and become a pediatric nurse and ethicist,” Stockard explained.

Stockard says her experience as a student at Auburn helped prepare her for the demanding role of Miss America.

“Work, hard work – it all ties back to Auburn for sure,” said Stockard.

Want to experience Stockard’s journey as Miss America 2025?  Follow the official Miss America social media channels on Facebook and Instagram.  Visit the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation website to find your state chapter and a list of fundraising events planned for this year.

Check out our Everything Auburn Podcast Hub here!

From an early age, Beth Thorne Stukes was immersed in the vibrant world of orange and blue, thanks to her mother, Barbara. But beyond the colors, Barbara passed down something even more enduring—a deep love for education and its power to transform lives.

 “Mother is a Human Sciences grad,” said Stukes. “She just had the most wonderful time of her life as a student at Auburn.”

 In a heartfelt tribute to their late mother, Stukes, alongside her sisters Barbara “Babs” Thorne Anderson ’88 and Rebecca “Becky” Thorne Carroll ’86, recently made a transformative gift to Auburn’s College of Human Sciences.  Their generous lead donation is going to help fund the construction of a new cutting-edge academic facility which will be known as the Barbara Drummond Thorne Academic and Research Facility.

Stukes says the state-of-the-art building will be a lasting symbol of their mother’s legacy and commitment to education.

“I like to say Human Sciences bakes the cake of life,” explained Stukes. “Mother brought so much of what she learned as a food and nutrition major into being a home economics teacher before her four children came. She planted all those seeds.”

Like her mother, Stukes was an educator herself. She spent 16 years teaching in rural Walker County, touching the lives of students every day and preparing them for a better quality of life. 

“I'm the oldest child in our family, which makes me a Bossy Flossy,” joked Stukes. “I'm a little nurturing, but we must make sure that our students are ready for this world today, that they can be nimble as they go through their life.”

Stukes’ joy of giving can also be traced back to her mother’s influence.

“I started going to Women's Philanthropy Board meetings with mom,” recalled Stukes. “I began to learn things that affect women and their lives and how to be a better steward of my time, talent, treasure and trust.”

That same spirit of intentionality continues to guide Stukes’ life. Her philanthropic support spans the breadth of Auburn’s mission, creating educational opportunities and resources for countless students.

“It’s very important for Auburn to create critical thinkers,” said Stukes. “We need to distribute that back to our state and our community so that all our children have a better head start. As a land grant university, that's our mission. That's why we're here. I'm very proud to say I don't think anybody's doing it better.”

Last year, Stukes’ steadfast commitment to education led her to be recognized as Alabama’s 2024 Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Alabama Chapter.

This year, Stukes is serving as the chair of The Auburn University Foundation.

“When Auburn comes knocking on your door, you say yes,” said Stukes. “The more I've been engaged, the more I've learned to love Auburn and come to know about the great efforts our different units are making for good change that will benefit our community, our state and globally.”

Stukes finds immense joy in witnessing students thrive. By following in her family’s footsteps, she strives to leave a meaningful legacy herself and inspires others to do the same—an effort her mother would undoubtedly be proud of.

Check out our Everything Auburn Podcast Hub here!