Remembering Brett on his birthday

As we celebrate Brett's birthday today, the College of Media and many others are reflecting on Brett's life and his legacy at Illinois.

Brett's family and friends, College of Media faculty and staff, and the many professional and personal connections Brett made across campus and in the Champaign-Urbana community will continue to remember his legacy at the University of Illinois, and celebrate his life through the Brett Lerner Memorial Scholarship.

Walker Post, a junior in the Department of Journalism, is the first recipient of the scholarship. Like Brett, Walker has a tremendous passion for journalism and an unending drive to succeed. Because of Brett's scholarship, Walker is one step closer to realizing his dream of becoming a successful journalist.

More than $63,000 in scholarship gifts have been received in little over a year. The level of support from family and friends from across the country is inspiring. It serves as a testament to Brett's contributions to his community, to journalism, and to just how much he touched the lives of so many. Your generosity ensures that his legacy will live on in perpetuity. As Brett's scholarship grows, more students will be able to study at a world-class university and pursue their dreams of a meaningful career in journalism.

On behalf of the Pomerantz family, the University of Illinois, and the College of Media, we thank everyone who contributed for honoring Brett's life and legacy.