Since enrolling in 2012, Brown’s commitment to campus life has flourished. He performed supporting roles in two operas, “Gianni Schicchi” and “The Coronation of Poppea,” and principal roles in “The Pirates of Penzance” and “Die Fledermaus.” In January 2017, Brown has a principal role in “The Magic Flute.”
“That’s the Oakland University Department of Music, Theatre and Dance difference,” Brown said. “Five roles as an undergraduate are unheard of in many schools across the country.”
Brown, a bachelor of music major, has
also branched out to perform at commencement ceremonies, new student convocations, 9/11 memorials and sporting events. He even auditioned for “The American Idol Experience” at Walt Disney World Resort, performing as a finalist in front of a live audience.
His leadership qualities emerged while serving as president of OU’s Opera Club as he orchestrated group trips to the Lyric Opera of Chicago, New York City’s Metropolitan Opera and Detroit’s Michigan Opera Theatre. Brown also pioneered Opera Club Student Showcases — group recitals where club members acquire performance experience and raise funds for trips and other ventures.
Brown has also been active in Greek life as a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon (SAE), which he considers an opportunity to connect with local and national community leaders.
“Since becoming a member of SAE, I’ve made it a point to live our motto and creed as ‘True Gentleman’ in all of my campus activities,” he said.
Those activities include membership on the Student Congress executive board from 2013 to 2014 and running for student body president in 2015. Brown has worked in New Student Programs and the First Year Advising Center and currently serves on the Student Activities Funding executive board.
Brown has “made a name for himself with students, faculty and staff” through his extraordinary involvement, said Jean Ann Miller, the director of the Center for Student Activities and Leadership Development. “He is a great role model for other students, demonstrating how much you can accomplish for yourself — personally and professionally — when you are engaged outside of the classroom.”
Understanding that college is a privilege, Brown decided long ago to make the most of his time at Oakland University. He recommends that students become involved for the long term impact of their experiences.
“There are countless opportunities available to emerge as a student leader,” Brown said. “Through these opportunities, students will grow personally, meet new friends and have amazing experiences they will never forget.”
