Seager Scholarships will help Spartans pursue artistic dreams

Leigh Wells Seager ’72 was a friend to many in Greensboro. Although she passed away in March of 2022, Leigh’s capacity for doing good left an indelible imprint on the community and the people she knew. She gave countless hours of service to UNC Greensboro’s Jackson Library, the Junior League of Greensboro, the UNCG Foundation Board, and the United Way Tocqueville Society and was an advocate for local arts projects like the Tanger Center and the Bryan Lecture Series.

That she lived and breathed supporting local artists of all stripes is one reason her husband, Carl, chose to honor her memory through gifting scholarships that will transform young lives. The Leigh Seager Scholarships in Art and Music at her alma mater, UNCG, will allow more students to receive the training and experience to pursue their artistic dreams.

“Carl Seager’s gift in memory of his late wife, Leigh, for scholarships in art and music will provide the opportunity for talented and deserving students to come to UNCG to study in the College of Visual and Performing Arts,” says Dean bruce d. mcclung. “Leigh’s love of the arts and support of such arts organizations as the Carolina Theatre and the Greensboro Symphony Guild will live on through generations of UNCG students.”

Leigh’s soul mate for nearly 50 years, Carl always had a plan to celebrate her life. Encouragement from friends, as well as his own enjoyment of classical music, helped to cement his decision. Recalling one of his many fond memories of life with Leigh, he says, “We had an agreement. She would go with me to visit historic battlefields, and I’d go with her to art museums. We were a great match!”

Carl’s love of Greensboro – he was born and raised there – also fueled his desire to see Leigh’s legacy lived out in her adopted hometown: “I want to invest in young people who want to achieve a career in the arts as a lifelong pursuit. I want to see the scholarship funds go to students who are passionate about dedicating their lives to art.”

Through his loving tribute to Leigh and her passion for helping others, Carl will cultivate outstanding talent at UNCG by opening the door to the top-notch education, mentoring, and supportive community of fellow artists that lead to rewarding careers.

This gift is part of UNCG’s Light the Way: The Campaign for Earned Achievement. This comprehensive fundraising campaign seeks to raise $200 million to increase access, elevate academic excellence, and enhance the tremendous impact of UNCG’s programs. Visit lighttheway.uncg.edu for additional information.

In photograph, Carl Seager with Seager Scholars (l-r) Lyndie Enchautegui, Dayvion McAllister, and Taylor Phillips. Photo by Bert VanderVeen ’97 MA.