2012 Graduate: Brian Leverett

Brian Leverett is a self-driven businessman who takes advantage of every opportunity to advance personally and professionally.

In 2002, the Colorado native graduated from high school early and joined the U.S. Marine Corps. Leverett served four years in the Marines, which included a tour of duty in Iraq. After marrying his wife, Kate, he decided to pursue a college degree and focus on the next phase of his career.

Leverett found Valdosta to be a good place for him to flourish academically and professionally. In 2009, at age 25, he began his own home rental business, Leverett Enterprises, while pursuing a finance degree at Valdosta State University.

Maintaining a successful business and healthy family life never hindered Leverett from excelling in his collegiate endeavors. His research paper titled “The Effects of the 2008 Financial Meltdown on Micro-Financing Outlets” was presented during the 2012 Undergraduate Research Symposium. The paper has, since, been submitted to various finance journals for peer review.

Leverett was also part of VSU's first student investment group, serving as sector manager. In March he traveled with the group to New York City, where members presented at Quinnipiac University School of Business' second annual Global Asset Management Education Forum.

Academically, Leverett ranked among the top 10 percent in his class, and as a result, he was honored as a member of Beta Gamma Sigma, a national honor society for business students, and graduated Summa Cum Laude.

Leverett has expressed plans to remain in Valdosta for at least another year, investing in more rental properties for his business. He also currently serves as treasurer for Georgia Bible Camp, where he developed an inventory and accounting system.

In addition, he and his wife anticipate the birth of their second daughter in June.

Leverett will eventually pursue a job as an analyst. Through his work and investments, he hopes to lay a foundation that allows him to retire before 40 and spend more time with his family.