Thirty years ago, Gregory Brown (Col ’89) became the 66th resident of 48 East. In time, he came to reflect on that life-changing experience, leading him to a greater appreciation of his brief tenure as a Lawn resident. For his 30th reunion gift, he chose to endow 48 East in perpetuity as a way to honor his sense of a shared succession—as just one of many who lived in the room before him, with many more to come.

We caught up with Brown after Reunions Weekend as he relived his memories of 48 East.

Here’s the story: In my second year, I ran for student council. I ended up runner-up for last place. It was a humbling experience. I was a University Guide at the time and had to give a tour the next day, so I decided to wear a white suit. I wanted to show myself that I could bounce back, stand up high, and represent the school with pride. Later, I was put in charge of a student council committee. I’m pretty sure it was one reason I ended up getting a Lawn room. So, how do you respond to an ignominious defeat? You wear a white suit and give a Lawn tour.

Endowing my Lawn room was a chance to honor those who came before as well as future generations. By contributing back, those of us who lived here can honor our experiences, our service, our being a part of that environment.