At UNC Greensboro, philanthropy turns student potential into success.
Through recent giving, Jeb Burns ’08 MEd and his wife, Molly, have supported Spartan student-athletes like senior Arnaud Tattevin, the recipient of the Burns Men’s Soccer Scholarship and a leader on the UNCG Men’s Soccer team.
Tattevin helped the Spartans advance to the third round of the NCAA Tournament during the 2024-25 season. UNCG showed grit and grace under pressure as they prevailed in two overtime games decided by penalty kicks. Tattevin himself converted the first penalty kick in the showdown that led to the Spartans’ upset of No. 2 seed Virginia.
In December, Tattevin was named to the United Soccer Coaches All-Region Third Team, 2025. In addition to success on the field, he has been working toward his degree from the Bryan School of Business and Economics and will graduate this May.
“Receiving my athletic scholarship from Jeb and Molly Burns means a lot to me. It would have been impossible for me to be a student-athlete without their support. I was even more grateful once I got to know them because they are more than just donors; they are my American family,” says Tattevin, who is from Rennes, France. “This amazing opportunity gives you more confidence, and this trust motivates you to give your best.”
The Burnses value strengthening the Greensboro community, creating opportunities for scholarship recipients, and forging relationships with the students they support.
“When you see up close the schedule that student-athletes keep – competing in college athletics and maintaining their school schedule – you feel inspired to encourage them any way you can. It is easy to cheer for positive kids who are eager to get a degree and make a difference in their world,” says Molly, who served on the UNCG Spartan Club Executive Committee from 2022 to 2024.
That spirit matches the culture of University athletic programs, says Director of Athletics Brian Mackin. “We value a positive culture, competitive spirit, and the wellbeing of our student-athletes. We believe that lessons learned on the field translate to success in life, and that’s why we’re so thankful for the Burnses’ commitment. Jeb and Molly’s generosity highlights the true spirit of UNCG Athletics.”
Jeb knows that education can change lives. After a career in the forest products industry, he returned to UNCG to earn a master’s in education and jump-start a new career as a middle-grades teacher.
“At UNCG, I was stretched academically and many of my prevailing thoughts and attitudes were challenged. It’s hard to go back to school 20 years later, but I grew on so many levels. I was impressed by and benefited from the resources that were available and the support and encouragement I got from the staff. I am very proud of my degree, and I am proud to be a Spartan,” he says.
The Burnses’ gifts to funds including the Spartan Athletics Scholarship Fund and the University Libraries Teaching and Learning Fund are making an impact on today’s students and paving the way for their future success. This endowed scholarship was part of UNCG’s Light the Way: The Campaign for Earned Achievement, with the goals of increasing access, elevating academic excellence, and enhancing the tremendous impact of UNCG’s programs.
