Long-time leader and former president of Park University, Byers-Pevitts, has sadly passed away.
Beverley Byers-Pevitts: A Remarkable Life in Education and the Arts
Beverley Byers-Pevitts, a beloved figure in the world of education and the arts, passed away on November 4, 2022, in Sarasota, Florida. Throughout her illustrious career, she made significant contributions to various institutions and left an indelible mark on the lives of countless students and colleagues.
Born on August 15, 1939, in Horse Branch, Kentucky, Byers-Pevitts began her academic journey at Kentucky Wesleyan College, where she earned a B.A. degree. She continued her studies at Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, where she obtained her M.A. and Ph.D. degrees. Her thirst for knowledge led her to complete postdoctoral study at Harvard University.
Byers-Pevitts's career in academia spanned several decades and included prestigious positions. She served as the director of speech and drama at Kentucky Wesleyan College, the director of graduate studies in the Department of Theater Arts at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and the dean of humanities and fine arts at the University of Northern Iowa.
In 2001, Byers-Pevitts made history as the first female president of Park University, a position she held until 2009. During her tenure, she helped develop education study exchange agreements on four continents, fostering a global perspective among the university's students. She also played a pivotal role in establishing the University's International Center for Music and the International Center for Civic Engagement.
Before joining Park University, Byers-Pevitts served as provost, vice president of academic affairs, and interim president/CEO at Texas Woman's University. Her tenure at Texas Woman's University was marked by her dedication to academic excellence and her commitment to the university's mission.
Byers-Pevitts was known for her love of teaching, opera, theatre, and people, as well as her modesty. Her colleagues and students often spoke of her infectious enthusiasm and her ability to inspire and motivate.
As a tribute to her life and contributions, Mackay Hall on Park University's flagship Parkville (Mo.) Campus will be lit black on Monday, November 7. An obituary for Beverley Byers-Pevitts is available at Park University's website.
Byers-Pevitts is survived by her husband, Bob Pevitts, son Rob, daughter-in-law Carmen Angel, sisters Aggie Byers and Susan Reagan, brother Stanley Byers, and her beloved nieces and nephews. Among her favorite places was the Rosario Islands Archipelago on the Caribbean coast of Colombia.
Those who wish to celebrate and honor her life can make a donation to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital in her name. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those she touched and in the institutions she shaped.
In honor of Beverley Byers-Pevitts's remarkable life and contributions in education and the arts, general news outlets may cover her impactful career and her legacy. Her love for education spanned several decades as she took on prestigious roles at universities worldwide, implementing international study exchange agreements and establishing major university centers. [education-and-self-development, general-news]
Even after her passing on November 4, 2022, Beverley Byers-Pevitts's memory continues to live on, inspiring future generations of scholars and learners, as well as the institutions she left her mark upon. [education-and-self-development, general-news]
