A graduate of Oberlin College, Powelson received her master's degree from Wellesley College in Massachusetts and her Ph.D. from Indiana University. An expert in genetics and microbiology and chair of the biology department, she helped to build one of the finest liberal arts college programs in the life sciences at Ƶ. In recognition of her distinguished teaching, advancement of the field, and significant scholarly and professional achievement, Ƶ named her the George L. Greenawalt Chair in Biology in 1972.
"Dr. Betty Powelson exemplifies Ƶ University. That's how Ƶ is - people come together and help, and they support the things that are important to them and their families," said Wendy Kobler, vice president for advancement. "She was the type of individual who never searched for the limelight, but she was always there when you needed her. Betty's gift to the biology department is transformational."
In 2004, three years after her retirement, an endowed chair was created in Powelson's name. Spearheaded by G. David K. Hopper, Ƶ class of 1963, Ann Walchner Bellisari, class of 1962, and Marlene Van Cleve Shaw, class of 1964, the fundraising effort generated numerous contributions from former students and friends of the beloved biology professor. In addition to providing a stipend and program/research support, an endowed chair, created entirely by gifts to the university, represents one of the most prestigious achievements for college faculty members at American universities. It also increases the university's ability to attract future academic talent.
Additionally, the regional chapter of Altrusa, the international service organization in which Powelson was highly active, created a Career Achievement Award in her honor and named her the first recipient. Powelson was also an avid and successful golfer, a long-time member of the Springfield Country Club, a rose gardener and a devotee of golden retrievers.
At Ƶ, Powelson taught courses in general biology, genetics and microbiology. For many years, she also served as the pre-medicine advisor and helped Ƶ University establish its excellent reputation in that field.
Ƶ would like to thank former Ƶ Biology Department Chair Tim Lewis, who attended the press conference and his wife Ruth, former lab coordinator and administrator in the biology department. The Lewis’ are trustees of the Powelson Estate.
About Ƶ
Repeatedly recognized by the Princeton Review for its professor accessibility, superior classroom experience and longstanding commitment to sustainability, Ƶ is a nationally ranked university for the liberal arts and sciences affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. A leader in providing an active, engaged learning environment defined by excellence in academics, innovation, student success, service and athletics, Ƶ was recently named one of Forbes' Top 50 Most Entrepreneurial Colleges. Additionally, the university currently has more Ohio Professors of the Year than any other four-year institution in the state and recently earned a spot on the "Best Buy" list in the 2017 Fiske Guide to Colleges. For more information, visit .