Molly Stone Given Endowed Scholarship

A conversation with Molly Given (pictured at left, with her freshman-year roommate Ali Stefanek at right).

Why did you choose to create a scholarship at Auburn University?
Creating a scholarship at Auburn actually came by me in way of a gift, which was such a wonderful present! I love that I was able to choose criteria for who I could help benefit in the future.

What would you want the recipients of this scholarship to know about the person for whom it is named?
I had the most wonderful college experience at Auburn, and I hope that by receiving my scholarship, students will be one step closer to having the same amazing experience that I did.

Tell us about your Auburn story, favorite tradition, a “War Eagle!” moment, or what Auburn has meant to you.
Auburn has always been a part of my family. I have spent my whole life attending football games and truly feel like I grew up inside the Conference Center. My grandparents were super involved in Auburn, and my parents are still incredibly involved. When it was time for me to make my college decision, it was a no-brainer that I would be attending Auburn. My four years at Auburn were the absolute best years of my life. Growing up, my father would always tell me that driving into Auburn made him feel like he was coming home. I never really understood why, but now that I am on the other side, I totally agree. It is so sad knowing that my time in college there was a thing of the past. Auburn has meant the world to me, and I hope that it ends up meaning just as much to every other student.

What do you hope your recipients gain through this scholarship?
I hope my recipients gain a more stress-free college experience with knowing that some financial aid has been taken care of. I was blessed to not have to worry financially any through college, and I hope that I give a little part of that to many other students along the way!