Betty Johnston

The Texas Woman’s University Alumni Association was honored to receive a generous gift from the estate of alumna Betty R. Johnston. Betty Johnston most recently lived in Lubbock, Texas, where she died in 2014. A graduate of the class of 1947 from then Texas State College for Women, Betty received a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and completed a master’s degree as well. She served her country reaching the rank of 1st Lieutenant in the Army and continued to serve after leaving the military throughout a long career with the government in the biological warfare assessment laboratories at Dugway Proving Ground in Utah.

An avid golfer and traveler, Betty combined these passions after her retirement by traveling with friends and playing at golf courses around the globe. She loved to stay in hostels to experience the culture of the country she was visiting in a way she felt could not be found in a traditional hotel.

Johnston’s cousin, Bonnie Sanders shared that Betty never forgot her educational roots at Texas Woman’s University; and, as a Life Member of the TWU Alumni Association determined she wanted to give back through a substantial gift. Alumni Association President, Juanita Dueñez-Lazo commented: “Betty was the epitome of a TWU True Pioneer. Her successful career, in a male-dominated field at that time, perfectly exemplified the skills and confidence with which graduates of Texas Woman’s University are empowered. Betty embodied all of the qualities of a dedicated alumna and we are grateful for her generous gift.”