Delores Brown
Delores L. Brown, affectionately known as Dee Dee, was a proud 1954 graduate of Platteville State Teachers College and a lifelong advocate for education. Through a transformational $1 million estate gift to the UW-Platteville Foundation and Alumni Association, Brown established an enduring legacy of scholarship support for full-time students majoring in education at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.
A devoted educator, Brown believed deeply in the power of education and the responsibility of teachers to recognize, challenge, and support the individual strengths of every child. Her gift reflects the same commitment to helping others succeed that defined her 35-year teaching career.
Born in Lancaster, Wisconsin, Brown was raised in Platteville, where she developed an early interest in education, leadership, writing, and community involvement. She participated in numerous school and community activities, including Rainbow for Girls, where she served as Worthy Advisor and later Grand Worthy Associate Advisor in Wisconsin. In recognition of her distinguished leadership and service, she received the Grand Cross of Color from the organization’s supreme assembly in Oklahoma.
Brown graduated with honors in 1954 from Platteville State Teachers College, the institution that would eventually become UW-Platteville. Her educational experience helped shape the path toward a career centered on teaching and service.
Following graduation, Brown began her teaching career in West Allis, Wisconsin, before moving to Madison, where she spent the majority of her 35-year career teaching at Crestwood, Midvale, and Lincoln elementary schools.
Brown viewed teaching as a calling and a meaningful way to serve others. She believed every child was important and deserved an educational experience that challenged them according to their individual abilities and strengths. Her approach reflected a deep commitment to helping students reach their full potential.
Throughout her career, she was also involved in professional and civic organizations, including Alpha Delta Kappa, an honorary teaching sorority.
Brown’s life was characterized by generosity, humility, leadership, and a quiet commitment to helping others. One of her greatest joys was marrying G. Franklin Brown in 1968. The couple shared 45 years of marriage, enjoying travel and new experiences together, as well as a strong bond rooted in their shared Christian values.
Her personal philosophy of service extended beyond her career. At her request, no funeral service was held following her passing in 2026. Instead, she asked that others honor her life by performing an act of kindness or helping someone throughout the year.
Brown’s gift establishes lasting scholarship support for full-time UW-Platteville students majoring in education. Her generosity will help reduce financial barriers for aspiring educators, allowing students to focus on their academic preparation and future careers in teaching. The gift represents a meaningful continuation of Brown’s own educational journey. Having benefited from the opportunities provided by Platteville State Teachers College, she chose to invest in future generations of educators who will carry that same commitment to learning and service into Wisconsin schools and communities.
Her legacy extends well beyond the university. By supporting those preparing to become teachers, Brown’s generosity will positively influence generations of students, families, and communities. Her legacy is one of education, service, kindness, and a lasting belief in the power of helping others.
A life devoted to teaching. A legacy dedicated to helping others succeed.