Who we are

It all began in the cafeteria at Prairie View A&M University when Carol Ann Hadnot refused to let Carl Settles cut in front of her. Intrigued by Carol's refusal to submit to the special privileges often afforded to athletes, Carl was eager to learn more about this beautiful young woman from East Texas. Though he never convinced her to let him cut in line, he did convince her to marry him after several months of dating. Both earned their bachelor's and master's degrees from Prairie View A&M. After Carl earned his doctorate from the University of Texas, the inseparable couple, now with their two young sons, Carl Jr. and Corey, returned to Prairie View A&M for Dr. Settles to lead the counseling department.

They were married for 48 years until Dr. Settles’ passing in 2015. Their legacy lives on through the lives of their children and grandchildren. Although Corey did not attend a Historically Black College or University (HBCU), he lives vicariously through his wife, La Brena, and their adult daughters, all proud graduates of such institutions.

Corey and La Brena share a passion for creating opportunities for young adults, a desire rooted in the countless acts of generosity that opened doors for La Brena and shaped the lives of Carl and Carol. Establishing scholarships is simply the next chapter in their enduring legacy of paying it forward.