To: Wellesley Community
From: President Paula Johnson
Re: Sad news about Elizabeth “Betsy” Wood Knapp ’64
Date: June 28, 2017
It is with great sadness that I tell you Elizabeth “Betsy” Wood Knapp, class of 1964, has passed away. She died at her home in Edwards, Colo., on June 20 at the age of 74, according to her husband, Cleon “Bud” Knapp. Today, the College’s memorial tribute to Betsy runs in the Boston Globe.
Betsy was a much-loved member of this community whose friendship and support affected countless lives, including the many faculty and staff who will cherish their memories of her. Betsy’s generosity made possible the creation of the Knapp Media and Technology Center and the Knapp Social Science Center. She served on the Wellesley College Board of Trustees for 15 years, was a founding member of the Wellesley College Business Leadership Council, and co-chaired the College’s record-setting $400 million comprehensive campaign that ended in 2005. Perhaps most of all, however, Betsy will be remembered for inspiring admiration and affection in everyone she knew.
We are fortunate to have been touched by her leadership, her talents, and her deep affection for the College. She was a part of Wellesley—and a part of our lives—in a transformative way that was uniquely hers. I know the entire community feels her loss.
If you wish, please feel free to share your memories of Betsy or offer your condolences.
