For Onetta Brooks ’74, philanthropy begins with belonging. A former Pomona basketball and volleyball player, Alumni Association Board past president and current College trustee, Brooks has seen firsthand how athletics can build confidence, community and opportunity. Her giving to Pomona reflects that lived understanding of what it takes for students to flourish.
Brooks came to Pomona without ever considering herself an athlete. A chance invitation from a coach led to lifelong friendships, a sense of purpose and, ultimately, the realization that she belonged. During the early years of Title IX, when women's teams often stitched their own uniforms and competed with limited resources, athletics became more than an extracurricular activity. It provided balance, camaraderie and an outlet that strengthened both body and spirit while she pursued a demanding mathematics degree.
Beyond Pomona, Brooks built a distinguished career as a systems engineer and aerospace program manager, worked in the industry for more than three decades, earned advanced degrees in public administration and theology, and has served as a minister and community leader.
"There was a moment when I realized I belonged at Pomona,” she reflects. “Athletics gave me friendships, support, and an outlet that helped my body and spirit come together. It made me stronger—and it taught me that I bring something just like anyone else. I bring a gift."
Her philanthropy carries that spirit forward. She hopes every student has the opportunity to discover the same sense of connection she still finds at Pomona: to know they belong, to contribute their own gifts, and to flourish as part of a community that lifts one another up.