Betsie and Husband Adam; right, Betsie’s painting of the Pi Kappa Phi anniversary gifts
She devoted over 21 years on Pi Kappa Phi national staff in roles ranging from administrative support to Director of Operations for Pi Kappa Phi Properties, from which she retired at the end of 2013. Her strength of character inspires those around her, and her kindness and passion are given to all.
Some may not know that along with her decorating talents (shown in the dcor of our Kelley A. Bergstrom Leadership Center and fortunate chapters across the country), that one of Betsie’s true loves is painting. She gave the fraternity a wonderful painting depicting Pi Kappa Phi’s anniversary gifts to the College of Charleston after we celebrated our centennial in 2004.
Betsie started painting in her late 20s, prefers working in oils but also enjoys drawing, sculpting and ceramics. Although she has taken some classes, clearly her talent is natural. When asked what she still wants to do, her emphatic answer was “Do it all!”
What many do not know is that Betsie was born in Holland and speaks fluent Dutch. She shares fond memories with those who have enjoyed her translations and songs.
While she admittedly misses the many staff members and alumni with whom she became close friends, Betsie is enjoying retirement. She especially does not miss the long commute to work. She is happy to have more time with her devoted husband Adam, her son, Frank, daughter, Lisa and son-in-law K.C. and grandchildren Owen and Lauren. Family cat Peaches is also happy to have more attention from Betsie!
Along with her abilities with a brush, right now she is adding bonsai gardening to her skills and continues to enjoy sewing, gardening, biking and cooking… sometimes with wine!