Betty became convinced that reading aloud was not only essential for literacy development, but also foundational to emotional connection and healthy childhood development. Guided by research, experience, and a deep compassion for children, she made the life-changing decision to leave the classroom and create a nonprofit organization focused on strengthening families through reading.
In 1989, at the age of 49, Betty founded Family Literacy Foundation, which later became United Through Reading. The organization became nationally recognized for helping military families remain emotionally connected during deployment through recorded read-aloud storytime experiences.
After retiring from United Through Reading at the height of the military program’s success, Betty soon recognized another urgent need: millions of children outside the military community were also experiencing separation from parents and caregivers, particularly children impacted by incarceration and other family hardships.
In 2009, she returned to “active duty” by founding Reading Legacies, expanding the mission to serve children and families throughout the broader community. Today, Reading Legacies supports children across San Diego and beyond through programs including Book Bridges, Youth Readers, First Teachers, and Storybook Inspirations.
Throughout her career, Betty has become widely respected for her leadership, innovation, and integrity in nonprofit management, fundraising, literacy advocacy, and program development. Her work has impacted countless children and families while helping shape national conversations around family literacy and emotional connection through reading.
Recognition & Awards
Throughout her career, Betty has been recognized nationally and locally for her leadership in literacy, nonprofit innovation, education, and community service.
National Recognition
- Congressional Medal of Honor Society Community Service Hero Award
- Peter Drucker Award for Nonprofit Innovation
- L’Oréal Paris Women of Worth National Honoree
- Daughters of the American Revolution Medal of Honor
- George Washington Honor Medal from Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge
Leadership & Community Awards
- LEAD San Diego Visionary Award
- Coronado Soroptimist International Legend Award
- San Diego Regional East County Chamber of Commerce Women in Leadership Award
- Rotary Club of Coronado Service Above Self Award
- San Diego Business Journal Business Women of the Year Finalist
Educational and Humanitarian Recognition
- Traditional Home magazine’s “Classic Woman Award”
- University of Illinois Alumni Humanitarian Award
Betty has also led organizations and programs supported by millions of dollars in philanthropic investment, always guided by a commitment to responsible stewardship, innovation, and meaningful outcomes for children and families.
