Community leader Beth Thorne Stukes will be recognized as Alabama’s outstanding philanthropist by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Alabama Chapter during a National Philanthropy Day luncheon in Birmingham.
Stukes, a member of the Samford University Board of Trustees and the Auburn University Foundation Board of Directors, will receive the William M. + Virginia B. Spencer Outstanding Philanthropist Award, which highlights her commitment to advancing education and serving communities across Alabama.
Leaders from Samford and Auburn jointly nominated Stukes for the AFP Alabama honor.
“Beth has made a profound difference in the lives of our students and the strength of our Samford community,” said Samford University President Beck A. Taylor. “We are proud to celebrate the tremendous work she has done for Alabama and the role that her legacy of giving and uplifting community service will inspire in others.”
At Samford University, Stukes’ generosity and service have made a tremendous impact, most recently through her contributions to scholarships and grants for the Orlean Beeson School of Education and the School of Health Professions. Beth has twice served on Samford University’s Board of Trustees, beginning her most recent term in 2023. In 2020 she co-chaired the university’s presidential search committee.
“Beth has made a profound difference in the lives of our students and the strength of our Samford community,” said university President Beck A. Taylor. “We are proud to celebrate the tremendous work she has done for Alabama and the role that her legacy of giving and uplifting community service will inspire in others.”
Stukes has inspired students and created lasting opportunities that embody Samford’s values of community and faith. She has been a champion for Samford Athletics as a member of the Bowden Society, served on the advisory board for the School of the Arts and supported Legacy League scholarships. In December 2023, Stukes received the prestigious Doctor of Humane Letters for her dedicated service to Samford University.
“As one of our most loyal and compassionate supporters, Beth is always there for Samford,” said Betsy Bugg Holloway, the university’s vice president for advancement and marketing. “Beth’s years of service to Samford and her family’s deep legacy here are cherished.”
As co-chair of the $1 billion Because This Is Auburn campaign, Stukes helped secure substantial funds that supported scholarships, faculty development and infrastructure improvements at Auburn. Her leadership in the campaign facilitated enhanced educational opportunities and resources for countless students. She is a member of Auburn’s 1856 Society Founders Circle, the Petrie Society, the Athletics Shug Jordan Society, the James E. Foy Loyalty Society, a lifetime member of the Auburn Alumni Association, and a member of the executive committee of Auburn’s Women’s Philanthropy Board in the College of Human Sciences.
“Beth’s considerable support for—and work on behalf of—Auburn University has been transformative for our institution and in the lives of countless students,” said Christopher B. Roberts, Auburn University president. “Her unbridled enthusiasm and tireless advocacy are a beacon that motivates others around her, and her passion for mentoring others in philanthropy ensures that her legacy of creating positive change in our communities will continue for generations to come.”
Beyond higher education, Stukes has played a pivotal role for Birmingham-area non-profits, including the Walker County Humane Society and Walker Area Community Foundation. She was instrumental as chair of the Cordova Long Term Community Recovery Committee, which provided much-needed aid and resources to rebuild homes, schools and community facilities after the April 27, 2011, tornadoes.
Since 1982, AFP Alabama has hosted an annual National Philanthropy Day event to recognize the individuals and organizations who generously share their time, talents and resources to support worthy causes across the state.
