A personal reflection on service, lifelong learning, and what receiving the Rotary Club of Ann Arbor Service Above Self Scholarship means to me.
By Donnetta Brown · Co-founder, Dee & Dee Brown LLC
Sometimes, the most meaningful moments in life remind us why we started a journey in the first place.
On October 7, 2026, I had the honor of attending the Rotary Club of Ann Arbor scholarship luncheon as a recipient of the Service Above Self Scholarship. I had applied in both 2025 and 2026, so being selected this year was especially meaningful.
As a United States Air Force veteran, returning college student, mother, and entrepreneur, this recognition represents much more than financial assistance. It reflects a lifetime of service, perseverance, and a commitment to helping others succeed.
Having my daughter, Dominique, accompany me made the afternoon even more special. Together, we celebrated another milestone in a journey built on education, determination, and our shared vision for Dee & Dee Brown LLC.
What Service Above Self Means to Me
Throughout my life, service has taken many forms. My commitment began during my military service in the United States Air Force, where I learned the importance of responsibility, teamwork, and dedication. After my honorable discharge, that commitment continued through my family and community.
Over the years, I have volunteered with outreach programs supporting low-income seniors experiencing food insecurity and social isolation. I have also helped single mothers and caregivers connect with community resources.
Another meaningful part of my journey has been sharing what I have learned about entrepreneurship. Whether helping someone understand how to obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN), begin establishing a small business, or create online product listings, I believe knowledge becomes more valuable when we share it.
WHAT THIS AWARD MEANS TO ME
“Service Above Self means recognizing that our individual achievements become more meaningful when we use them to improve the lives of others.”
— Donnetta Brown
Returning to College and Embracing New Opportunities
Returning to school later in life requires courage, determination, and a willingness to begin again. As a student at Washtenaw Community College, I am continuing my education in Business Management and Entrepreneurship and Innovation.
My involvement with Phi Theta Kappa and Student Veterans of America has connected me with fellow students who understand the challenges and rewards of continuing their education as adults. Many returning students balance schoolwork with family responsibilities, financial obligations, and personal challenges.
This scholarship provides meaningful support as I continue my academic journey. Just as importantly, it reminds me that education is not limited by age or circumstance. There is no expiration date on learning, growth, or pursuing a new purpose.
A Memorable Afternoon with the Rotary Club of Ann Arbor
The scholarship luncheon was an opportunity to meet individuals who genuinely care about education, community involvement, and supporting students. Dominique and I appreciated the warm welcome we received and the conversations we shared throughout the afternoon.
It was especially meaningful to meet people who took an interest in our educational experiences and the work we are building through our business. Those conversations reminded me that community support extends beyond financial assistance. Sometimes encouragement, a meaningful introduction, or simply taking the time to listen can leave a lasting impression.
I am grateful to the Rotary Club of Ann Arbor, the Service Above Self Committee, and everyone who helped make the luncheon such a memorable occasion.
Building Dee & Dee Brown LLC with Purpose
My educational goals are closely connected to Dee & Dee Brown LLC, the veteran-owned business I co-founded with my daughter, Dominique. Our business began with resale and has continued developing into a broader vision involving education, digital resources, content creation, and entrepreneurship.
We believe that practical experience, combined with education, can create opportunities for people seeking greater financial independence. Through Dee & Dee Brown LLC, we are working toward providing reseller education, digital guides, business resources, and tools that help others learn and build.
Our focus is especially meaningful for veterans, women, caregivers, and older adults who may be exploring new opportunities or beginning another chapter of their lives. The knowledge I gain at Washtenaw Community College helps strengthen our business foundation and supports our long-term goals.
Our company motto reflects that ongoing process: Learning. Applying. Building. We learn new skills, apply them through real-world experience, and use those lessons to build something meaningful.
Three Lessons This Experience Reinforced
Three Takeaways from Service Above Self
Learning builds confidence, opens doors, and gives us room to begin again.
Encouragement and shared knowledge help people move forward together.
A business can create practical opportunities beyond profit.
These lessons continue to guide my academic and entrepreneurial journey. Returning to school has reinforced my belief that growth remains possible at every stage of life, while community service and business ownership give that growth a purpose beyond myself.
Moving Forward with Gratitude and Purpose
Receiving the 2026 Rotary Club of Ann Arbor Service Above Self Scholarship is a milestone I will always appreciate. It represents encouragement, recognition, and the belief that students at every stage of life deserve opportunities to succeed.
I am grateful for the support of the Rotary Club, Washtenaw Community College, and the people who continue to encourage my educational journey. Most importantly, I am grateful to share this chapter with my daughter, Dominique, as we continue learning, growing, and building our business together.
My journey has taught me that starting over is not a sign of failure. It is an opportunity to apply life's experiences with greater wisdom, determination, and purpose.
My goal is not simply to succeed, but to build something that allows others to succeed alongside me.
That is the purpose guiding my education, my business, and the next chapter of my life.
About Dee & Dee Brown LLC
Dee & Dee Brown LLC is a veteran-owned, mother-and-daughter business founded by Donnetta Brown and Dominique Brown. Through resale, educational resources, digital content, and entrepreneurship, we are building opportunities grounded in experience, lifelong learning, and practical business development.
Learning. Applying. Building.
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