Beloved Illinois State University Board Trustee Emeritus Betty Kinser passed away on January 2, 2024. She was 83.
Kinser was appointed to the Board by Gov. Rod Blagojevich in 2006 and retired after her term ended in 2017.
An alum of Illinois State, she earned a bachelor’s degree in art education in 1973 and a master’s degree in art education in 1975. She served for many years as the alumni representative on the Board.
During her Illinois State career, Kinser served as an instructor and advisor. In 1999, she received the Herb Sanders Award for outstanding advising. She served on numerous University committees, including Educating Illinois and the Administrative Professional Council. She also sponsored and served as fiscal agent for several registered student organizations. Kinser retired from the University in August 2005 as assistant to the director of the School of Art.
Before coming to Illinois State, she also taught at elementary, secondary, and community college levels.
Kinser remained active in many community organizations throughout the years, including the League of Women Voters, Easter Seals, Midwest Food Bank, Illinois State women’s athletics, and McLean County’s Light the Night Walk. In 2007 she was named Normal’s Citizen of the Year.
Illinois State extends its heartfelt sympathy to her family and friends. She will be missed.
