Title: Development Officer

Company: Auburn University

Location: Auburn, Ala.

Proficient in encouraging others, mentorship and teaching, Veronica Chesnut has faithfully served the education sector for the past 46 years. She is incredibly empathetic toward students and tries to meet each student’s needs, no matter what they are. Currently, she is the development officer for the Samuel Gin College of Engineering at Auburn University. Through this role, she is in charge of major giving and serves as the liaison to the Nuclear Generation Systems Engineering Program Board.

“I chose this career path because education is what I love,” says Ms. Chesnut. She laid the foundation for her successful career by earning an EDS in higher education, a master’s degree in elementary education and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. In addition, she is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in adult and continuing education, and teaching. She believes that she has gained strength and inspiration from the Lord and her desire to serve Him. However, she has also been fortunate to have had both grandmothers be strong influences for her. “I have this internal motivation [because of them],” she states.

Inevitably, the tenacious spirit of her grandmothers has trailed down through the generations. Ms. Chesnut notes that her greatest accomplishment, personally, has been raising her strong daughter, who has “broken glass ceilings.” Professionally, she has survived nearly five decades in education because of working with wonderful people and taking opportunities presented to her.

A change that Ms. Chesnut has experienced throughout the years is that a few decades ago, many women were not in educational leadership roles. However, over time, the doors opened up and their voices were heard.

Ms. Chesnut supports EAMC and is on the Cancer Board, as she is a survivor herself. She is also on the board for the Woman’s Hope Medical Center and the board of directors for EDS.

Looking ahead, Ms. Chesnut’s professional goal is to complete her doctorate. “I want to be remembered for loving people, maintaining wonderful relationships with my family and friends, and leaving a legacy of integrity and passion in what I did,” she says.