UCCS alumnus, former student body president and U.S. Army veteran Michael “Axel” Brown shares what philanthropy means to him.
Q: Tell us about your experience with philanthropy at UCCS.
A: During my years at UCCS, I saw firsthand how philanthropy makes a difference. The HEROES Scholarship was a major support for several of my friends who were serving while attending school. The Army’s Tuition Assistance program covers only part of the cost of tuition, and those in the Junior Enlisted ranks don’t make enough to cover the remaining amount. The HEROES Scholarship closed the gap so they could stay on track.
I also saw philanthropy support friends who were student athletes. When last year’s Giving Day brought strong support for athletic scholarships, it showed how invested the community is in helping UCCS students succeed.
As UCCS’s student body president, I had opportunities to meet major donors and saw how deeply they care about enrollment, the university’s direction and the well-being of students. It showed me what a strong, committed community UCCS has behind it.
Q: Share a favorite memory made possible by philanthropic support.
A: I first learned about the HEROES Scholarship before I even transferred to UCCS. A friend of mine—who later became my fraternity brother—was receiving it while he worked toward becoming an Army officer. He often told me how UCCS’s Military and Veterans Affairs Division supported him and how the university helped him find ways to continue his education. That had a real impact on me.
Q: UCCS Giving Day features several funding priorities. Which matter most to you, and why?
A: Mental health and wellness is a major priority. As a student leader, I saw how some students struggle—especially first-generation students—and how important it is to have enough counselors and social workers on campus. After a tragic loss in our community, I saw UCCS come together and strengthen those supports. That was movement in the right direction.
I also feel strongly about study abroad scholarships. Studying abroad is something I wish I could have done, but as student body president, I didn’t have the chance. For many students, the cost of applying is a barrier. I would love to see donors support opportunities that allow first-generation and lower-income students to experience the world.
Q: What would you say to someone considering making a gift to UCCS?
A: I’d thank them. Students may never know your name or why you gave, but they absolutely appreciate you.
UCCS has helped me in countless ways, and as I move forward in my career, I’m already thinking about how I can give back too. A lot of UCCS graduates stay in the region and continue contributing to the community. CU does great work in communities statewide, and it’s important to support all campuses—not just the largest ones. UCCS and CU Denver are doing incredible things, and philanthropy helps keep that momentum going.
Q: What has been your greatest takeaway from your UCCS experience?
A: Serving as student body president meant a lot to me. In high school, the student body president got to read the morning announcements—so standing at the graduation podium at UCCS felt like a full-circle moment. Before I could even say a word, someone shouted, “That’s my president!” I wanted to make an impact at UCCS, and it was so nice to hear that the work I did mattered.