Alumni Spotlight: Brian Douglas White II '23
My name is Brian Douglas White II—son of Brian Douglas White, a barber turned business owner; grandson of Douglas Gene White, a sharecropper turned entrepreneur; and great-grandson of Gene White, a man born into slavery who later became a sharecropper.
As I write this on my 30th birthday, I am struck by the weight of my lineage and the depth of my journey. Could my great-grandfather have imagined the opportunities I now have? Could he have envisioned that, in just three generations, his great-grandson would serve as a military leader in the U.S. Army, become a prestigious university alumnus, and be a mentor to future generations? I am deeply honored to be recognized during Black History Month—not just as an alumnus of the University of San Diego, but as a proud member of the USD Alumni Board. This moment is not about accolades; it’s about reflection. It’s about recognizing the sacrifices of those who came before me, the doors they opened, and the responsibility I carry to ensure those doors remain open for others.
Growing up in the inner city of Washington, D.C., attending such a university as USD felt like a distant dream. Wishful thinking even. But dreams, I’ve learned, are often closer than we think—if we dare to chase them. With hard work and the unwavering support of those who believed in me, I stepped onto USD’s campus as a young student-athlete hungry for knowledge and I left a polished young man with a world-class education, enhanced cultural awareness/exposure, and a deep curiosity of the world’s problems - with the courage to begin tackling them! USD was more than just an academic experience—it was a place of profound growth. Opportunities to study sustainable development while abroad in Paris and attending Semester at Sea pushed me beyond my comfort zone, exposing me to cultures and perspectives that reshaped how I saw the world. Both life-changing experiences shaped my perspective of the world and the urgency of contributing to something greater than myself. I traveled, I learned, and most importantly, I grew.
I experienced that growth also often comes through experiencing adversity. During my time at USD, I faced one of the most difficult moments of my life—the loss of my mother. It was a moment that affected me in ways I never anticipated, and I continue to cope with it to this day. Yet, in that season of grief, I discovered the true power of community. My friends, mentors, and professors held me up when I could not stand on my own. They reminded me that strength is not found in isolation but in the love and support of those who walk beside us. That sense of community became my foundation. I found it in the BSRC, the classroom, in Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., on the football field, and in the International Business Club. Each of these spaces reinforced a vital truth: we never walk alone. No matter how steep the climb, we are carried by the collective strength of those who came before us and those who stand beside us.
My heritage has always been central to who I am. It shapes my leadership, my vision, and my commitment to service. One of the greatest lessons I’ve learned comes from the African philosophy of Ubuntu, a principle I first encountered through meeting Archbishop Desmond Tutu on my Semester at Sea voyage. Ubuntu— “I am because we are”—reminds us that our success is deeply intertwined with the well-being of others. True leadership isn’t about individual achievement; it’s about lifting as we climb, creating opportunities for others, and ensuring that when we rise, our community rises with us. This mindset of service has guided me in every role I’ve held, whether in the military, on campus, or in my fraternity. Leadership, to me, is not about titles—it’s about action. It’s about recognizing the struggles of those around us, extending a hand, and using our platforms to make a difference.
To every student reading this—especially those from diverse backgrounds—know that your journey matters. Your experiences, your voice, and your dreams are significant. Do not shy away from spaces that challenge you. Surround yourself with those who push you to grow. And most importantly, reach back as you move forward. Be the mentor you once needed. Be the change you wish to see. That is how we create lasting impact. Today, I remain connected to USD through the Alumni Board and mentorship, not out of obligation, but out of gratitude. This university shaped me, and I am committed to ensuring it continues to uplift others. Being part of this community is more than a title—it’s a commitment to give back, build, and inspire. This is the essence of Black History Month. It’s about honoring our past while forging a better future. It’s about recognizing that no matter where we begin, with faith, determination, and the support of a compassionate community, no challenge is insurmountable. Thank you for being part of my journey. Thank you for continuing to create spaces where people like me can dream, grow, and thrive. Let’s keep rising together—one step, one success, and one open door at a time.
Go Toreros!
- USD Alumni Association