For Betty, education was more than a profession — it was a calling rooted in faith.

Growing up in Michigan, Elizabeth "Betty" became a teacher and eventually made history as Michigan's first female school superintendent. She was involved in one of the country's first Head Start programs and later devoted herself to training future educators. Everything she did was grounded in her Catholic faith and a deep belief that every young person deserves the tools they need for a self-sufficient life.

When Betty learned about St. Labre Indian School, she saw that same conviction at work. She began supporting the school's mission to provide Native American students with an exceptional education — and hope for tomorrow.

A careful steward of her resources, Betty planned to ensure that part of her legacy would continue providing for the causes she cared about long after her lifetime. She chose to include St. Labre in her estate plan — not only extending her generosity into the future but expanding her ability to make a positive difference in students' lives for generations to come.

Betty passed away last year, but her influence lives on. St. Labre is honored to welcome her into our Sacred Circle Legacy Society — a recognition for those who use their estate plans to create enduring gifts for Native American children's futures. 

There are many ways to leave a lasting gift. You may include St. Labre in your will or trust, designating a percentage of your estate, a specific dollar amount, or the remainder after other bequests. You can also name St. Labre as a beneficiary of a life insurance policy, an IRA, or another financial account.

To learn more, please call 1-866-652-0959 or email plannedgiving@stlabre.org. We would be pleased to send you a complimentary Will Kit. All inquiries are held in the strictest confidence.

Betty's life reminds us that leaving a lasting legacy is far less about wealth than it is about love and thoughtful planning. Through her planned gift, that love continues — helping Native American children become Proud, Prosperous and Free for generations to come.