AUBURN, Ala. – Auburn University will honor philanthropist and educator Beth Thorne Stukes with an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa, during its spring commencement ceremony on May 2 at 6 p.m. The distinction, only the 163rd honorary degree conferred in Auburn’s 170-year history, recognizes Stukes’ lifelong commitment to education, service and philanthropy and her lasting impact on the university and communities across Alabama.
Beth Thorne Stukes
“Honorary degrees are among the highest recognitions awarded by Auburn University and are reserved for individuals whose lives and accomplishments reflect the institution’s highest values,” Auburn Board of Trustees President Pro Tempore Jimmy Sanford said. “Beth Stukes exemplifies the spirit of the Auburn Creed through her commitment to service, integrity and the belief that education can improve lives. Her dedication to philanthropy and community leadership has created opportunities for countless students while strengthening Auburn for generations to come.”
A former educator who taught for 16 years in Walker County schools, Stukes has long championed K-12 and higher educational opportunity and community engagement across Alabama. At Auburn, she served as president of the Women’s Philanthropy Board from 2021 to 2023 and remains active in its executive leadership. She also served as chair of the Auburn University Foundation Board and is currently vice chair of the College of Human Sciences Dean’s Board of Advisors, helping guide philanthropic efforts that support scholarships, faculty initiatives and academic facilities benefiting Auburn students.
“Beth’s impact on the College of Human Sciences is both deeply personal and far-reaching,” said Dean Susan Hubbard. “Her guidance, generosity and genuine friendship have strengthened our college in countless ways, and her unwavering belief in the power of education continues to open doors for our students. She leads with both heart and purpose—championing opportunity not only at Auburn, but across communities throughout Alabama. We are profoundly grateful for her commitment to Human Sciences and her enduring passion for advancing education at every level.”
Stukes’ leadership also played a key role in advancing Auburn’s historic “Because This Is Auburn” comprehensive campaign, where she served as a co-chair and helped secure a record $1.2 billion in philanthropic support for the university. Most recently, Stukes and her sisters, Babs Thorne Anderson and Becky Thorne Carroll, made the lead gift naming the Barbara Drummond Thorne Academic and Research Facility for the College of Human Sciences. Opening in 2027, the gift honors their mother and represents a lasting investment in the future of the college’s students and faculty.
“There are moments in life you never quite expect,” said Stukes. “To be honored by Auburn University—a place I deeply love and respect—is truly humbling. Auburn’s commitment, as a land-grant institution, to improving the lives of all Alabamians and making a meaningful impact on the world makes this recognition even more special. I will strive to represent Auburn University and The Creed in all I do. War Eagle!”
Beyond Auburn, Stukes has long been a driving force for philanthropy and community development across Alabama. Through the Walker Area Community Foundation, she has supported initiatives focused on literacy, recreation, disaster recovery and community development, including efforts following the devastating 2011 tornadoes. Stukes also serves on the Samford University Board of Trustees, where her leadership has helped advance scholarships, capital projects and educational programs.
In recognition of her extraordinary contributions to education and community service, Stukes was named Alabama’s Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year in 2024 by the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Stukes also serves as a director of the Drummond Company, helping guide international corporate social responsibility efforts, and remains active in outreach and service through her faith community at First Baptist Church of Jasper, Alabama.
Stukes will be presented with the degree during the combined bachelor’s ceremony for the Colleges of Agriculture, Architecture, Design and Construction, Human Sciences, Nursing and Veterinary Medicine.
All spring commencement ceremonies will be live streamed on the commencement website.
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