Gene graduated from Southern University in 2009 with a Business Management degree. After college graduation, Gene worked for a small business that specialized in custom printing and promotional items for Greek and student organizations called Burning Sands International located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. As an Assistant Manager he was able to gain very valuable experiences such as handling customer service issues, controlling inventory, and assisting in the production of all goods manufactured.
At Southern University, Gene was part of the Phi Beta Lambda Business Fraternity, Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), and a member of the Southern University “Human Jukebox” Marching Band. He served as the Membership Intake Chairman for Phi Beta Lambda and facilitated various workshops and programs involved with the intake process of the newest initiates. As a part of SHRM he coordinated workshops to enhance student knowledge about the business world.
Gene’s grandfather Franklin Dorsey shares how thankful he is for Gene’s Scholarship: “I really don’t have the words to say how the Steve Francis Foundation has helped us. Because when you raise children and you know that things you really want to do for them and finances that you really don’t have available, and through your prayers and hoping that you see a foundation come up like this. Not only to be able to help get them into college but let them feel more freely knowing that someone out there cares.”
The Steve Francis Foundation welcomed Gene’s cousin Marcus McGowen in 2007 to the family. Marcus and Gene both grew up as active members of the Johnny Mitchell Boys and Girls Club in Galveston. Gene dedicated more than five years to the club and played saxophone for the George Ball High School Band. He volunteered to tutor students at the B&G Club helping with science projects, math assignments, computer technology, and spelling tests.
"The Steve Francis Foundation has impacted my life by helping me and my family through the burden of paying for a college education. Also, the foundation inspires me to find ways to get involved in my community through mentorship." -Gene McGowan
SFF congratulates Gene for his big accomplishment this year and will continue to follow and support his bright career.