Shared passion is often one value that holds a couple together—and Linda Hammer-Brown and David Brown are no exception to this truism. Their collective passion for the arts and a strong devotion to service have translated into a philanthropic commitment to SOU’s theatre program. The couple established a scholarship to support students from historically underrepresented communities or those students who face significant challenges in attending college.

Linda and David first met at Lake McDonald Lodge in Glacier National Park. Their first date was to see a performance of “Oklahoma” in Big Fork, MT. They instantly connected, and dated long distance for a while—writing letters to each other and sending mix tapes through the mail. They were married in the summer of 1972.

Linda grew up in Kansas City and graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in education. Her first teaching job was at Kalispell Junior High in Montana. David grew up attending church and earned an undergraduate degree from Castleton State College in Vermont. After seminary in the Boston area, David became a director of Christian education and youth ministry. While living in Sheridan, WY, Linda was inspired by a nonverbal student in her kindergarten class and pursued a master’s degree in education of the deaf and taught deaf children for 25 years. She eventually created a theatre program for them.

David and Linda started acting after they got married; their first play was “Once Upon a Mattress.” Their tradition of seeing 12 new plays each year led them to become mainstays in the Merced Shakespeare Festival. After retiring, the couple relocated to Southern Oregon in part because of the Oregon Shakespeare Festival.

“What I really appreciate about this university is its inclusive attitude. There’s a sense of community, and it’s small enough that people connect, and it extends beyond the campus,” said David.

It was their love of theatre that led David and Linda to focus on theatre, an art form they believe should be nurtured. “I hope this scholarship will help students who are passionate about theatre but cannot afford college tuition. We both would like to see the theatre program thrive at SOU,” said Linda.

“There are all these students out there, and we can’t help them all, but maybe we can help one and if we give a little, maybe someone else will give a little,” said David. “The hope is that others will give more too, and we can build on it, creating a larger impact.”