Family, Friends Remember Rowan University’s Milan Whetstone at 30 Under 40 Gala
Milan Whetstone's family and friends at 30 Under 40 Gala. Photo by Ashley Ward
BY ASHLEY WARD | For AC JosepH Media
DEPTFORD — Milan Whetstone’s legacy of leadership and service in her community was honored July 30th at Adelphia’s in Deptford New Jersey, as she was recognized as a member of FrontRunnerNewJersey.Com’s 30 Under 40 Top Black Leaders of South Jersey Class of 2026 during the program’s 5th Anniversary Gala on July 30.
Whetstone was remembered as someone who consistently poured into the people around her. Through her work in higher education, community service and mentorship, she dedicated much of her career to helping students and families find opportunities and navigate challenges.
At Rowan University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree Applied Sociology, she worked in admissions and student support, becoming a familiar source of guidance for students and colleagues alike.
Her community involvement also reached beyond the university, including her volunteer work as the Parenting and Wellness Director at Peaceful Minds Haven, where she supported expectant mothers and families.
Her impact was especially evident in the way she continued to show up for others while facing her own challenges. Even after being diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer, Whetstone continued to encourage others, serve her community and pursue projects that were meaningful to her and her family.
During a special memorial tribute at the gala, Dr. Penny McPherson-Myers of Rowan University reflected on the qualities Whetstone embodied and the importance of carrying those values forward.
Dr. Penny McPherson-Myers speaks at 30 Under 40 Gala on July 30, 2026. Photo by Ashley Ward
“As we honor her, may we also commit ourselves to carry forward the values that define her. Unwavering faith, selfless service, genuine compassion, and believe that one person, through love and dedication, can transform the lives of others,” McPherson-Myers said.
Bianca Gause, marketing and communications director of Peaceful Minds Haven spoke about the strength Whetstone displayed throughout her journey and the way she continued to prioritize love and service.
Bianca Gause speaks at 30 Under 40 Gala on July 30, 2026. Photo by Peaceful Minds Haven
“Over the next 3 years, she faced every challenge with grace, resilience, and the unwavering love for her family and this community. Cancer became a part of her story, but it never defined who she was. Milan taught us that strength isn’t measured by the absence of hardship. It’s measured by how we choose to love and with others despite this,” Gause said.
The commitment to help others will continue through the Milan Whetstone Legacy Scholarship Walk, hosted by Peaceful Minds Haven on Sept. 12 at Cooper River Park in Cherry Hill. Proceeds from the event will support scholarships established in Whetstone’s memory and help provide educational opportunities for future students and families.
Whetstone’s sister, Tasia Fleshman, also reflected on her determination to keep giving to others and creating despite the challenges she faced.
Tasia Fleshman speaks at 30 Under 40 Gala on July 30, 2026. Photo by Ashley Ward
“Even after she was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer, Milan refused to let that diagnosis define her and never stop thinking of others,” Fleshman said. “Instead, she continued to serve, continued to encourage others, and continued to create. Before her passing, she wrote a beautiful children’s book titled ‘When I Hug Mommy, the Magic Happens,’ which was inspired by the unbreakable bond she shared with her precious daughter, Nola.
“It was her way of ensuring that Nola and other children, walking a similar journey, would always know that a mother’s love never ends. And that even the smallest acts of love can carry someone through life’s hardest moments.”
Through the 30 Under 40 recognition, the scholarships being established in her name, her beautiful children’s book and the continued efforts of those whose lives she touched, Whetstone’s legacy of love, service and leadership will continue to live on throughout the South Jersey community.
“This is who Milan was. She transformed adversity into hope, pain into purpose, and obstacles into opportunities to inspire.” – Tasia Fleshman
Ashley Ward is a South Jersey freelance reporter. She is a student at Rowan College of South Jersey, where she is a member of the school’s golf team and helps with her family’s company Creative Content on Demand in Clayton. She can be reached at Ashley.ward7251@gmail.com.
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