8/15/2012 - Judson College Alumnae to Honor Dr. Betty Campbell

Former students of Judson College music professor Dr. Betty Campbell plan a birthday reception for her on August 25. The event will be in the Gladys Dunkin Parlors in Jewett Hall from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m.

"We're calling it 'high tea' since Dr. Betty is affectionately known as 'The Queen,'" said alumna Christe Montabana Fox of Pace, Fla. "We want alums to wear fancy hats to celebrate Dr. Betty's 85^th birthday in style!"

Fox said monetary gifts received in honor of Campbell will be donated to the Annual Fund of the college.

Those planning to attend the event should RSVP by Aug. 20 to Judy Martin by telephone (334.683.5152) or by e-mail (jmartin1@judson.edu).

Campbell grew up as Betty Smith in Laurel, Miss.—the daughter of a Southern Baptist minister. After high school, she earned degrees from Louisiana State University, Northwestern University and Columbia University.

It was at LSU that she discovered voice as her major focus in teaching.

She and her husband, Bracey, moved to Marion in 1976 to teach music and work with the college choir. Dr. Bracey Campbell directed “The Judson Singers” until his death in 1989, and then Dr. Betty Campbell took the helm. 

Campbell gave up directorship of “The Judson Singers” in 2000, but remains active teaching voice at the college and traveling with the choir whenever she can. 

"It's satisfying to look back at my career and see the wonderful students I've had," she said. 

Photo cutline: Dr. Betty Campbell in her piano studio. Photo by Bill Mathews.

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