Crenshaw County natives are flourishing at the collegiate level and two recently earned degrees at the University of Alabama (UA), finishing among over 6,000 receiving degrees during the university’s spring commencement ceremonies.

Summer Waters Pfleger of Luverne has earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Information Sciences degree from UA. Pleger is a graduate of Luverne High School and served as Crenshaw County 2022 Distinguished Young Woman and Miss LHS 2021. During her time at UA, she not only excelled academically but also competed for Miss UA in October 2023.

She is a singer/songwriter who has performed locally, in Greenville and Luverne, and married the love of her life, Ethan Pfleger, in 2024.

Kailand-Ascia Brown of Rutledge completed her studies at UA and received her Bachelor of Science in Commerce and Business Administration. She was among 18 students studying to become rural doctors, dentists and other health-care providers who were recognized at a College of Community Health Sciences convocation April 26 as part of the College’s Rural Medical Scholars, Rural Community Health Scholars and Rural Dental Scholars programs.

In 2020, Brown earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama (UAB) in Birmingham. Upon graduation from UA, Brown plans a transition into the UAB Heersink School of Medicine.

A recent economic analysis found that a degree from The University of Alabama has proven to provide an abundant return on investment for graduates, setting the stage for legendary careers while also creating priceless experiences and memories.

The University provides numerous opportunities for service and growth to help prepare future generations through its educational, cultural and social experiences. UA is not only home to competitive academic programs, expert faculty and a beautiful campus, but it is also the place Where Legends Are Made.

The University of Alabama, part of The University of Alabama System, is the state’s flagship university. UA shapes a better world through its teaching, research and service. With a global reputation for excellence, UA provides a forward-thinking environment and over 200 degree programs on a beautiful, student-centered campus. A leader in cutting-edge research, UA advances discovery, creative inquiry and knowledge through more than 30 research centers. As the state’s largest higher education institution, UA drives economic growth in Alabama and beyond.