College of Arts and Sciences Newsroom
In Memoriam: Betty Ann Perkins
Betty Ann (Behringer) Perkins, a past faculty member in the department of history and a founder of the University’s women’s studies program, died Dec. 30. She was 95.
A Dayton native, Betty Ann earned a master’s degree in history from the University of Dayton, where she taught for 17 years, and helped establish the women’s studies program, which she directed from 1971-84. She also headed UD’s Title IX evaluation process.
"Her leadership and legacy are central to our mission and continued work," said Denise James, director of the women's and gender studies program. "We are forever grateful for her trailblazing efforts."
Betty Ann was active in the Centerville Historical Society and chaired the Centerville Historical Commission from 1992-2000. She and her husband, Robert, were founding members of Incarnation Parish in Centerville, where she remained an active member and generous contributor to many charitable causes.
She is survived by her husband of 72 years, Robert; daughters Kathleen and Barbara Perkins and Lynn Brumfield; sons Douglas (Sue), Gregory (Debra), Jeffry (Monica) and Matthew; brother Rev. William Behringer S.M. (a UD emeritus Board of Trustees member); grandchildren Erin Bohn (Tom), Chris, David (Erica), Mark, Stephen, and Drew Perkins, and Maria LaFord (Christian); and great-grandchildren, Caroline, Carter, Lauren and Ethan Bohn, Jane, Katarina, and Owen Perkins, Tristin, Amelia and Jamie LaFord. She was preceded in death by grandson, Jeffrey Perkins, and son-in-law, Jeffrey Brumfield.
Visitation and a Mass of Christian burial took place at the Church of the Incarnation in Centerville, Tuesday, Jan. 2. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to the Robert J. and Betty Ann Perkins scholarship at the University of Dayton or to a charity of one’s choice.
"Let us remember Betty Ann in our prayers," said Father Jim Fitz, S.M., University vice president for mission and rector. "May God grant her the fullness of eternal life in the kingdom. Let us also remember her family, especially her husband Robert, as they mourn her loss."
- Shannon Miller, associate director of news and internal communications, and Shawn Robinson, associate director of news and communications.