Joan F. Curry Endowed Presidential Scholarship

Feb 29, 2008 | EPS/EPF

I give this endowment in honor of my high school and college sweetheart and late wife, Joan, whose dedication to family, friends, education, and the betterment of other’s lives serves as an inspiration to all who knew her.

Joan was born in Wichita, Kansas, but grew up in Midland, Texas. She was deeply committed to her education, earning honors at Midland High School and The University of Texas at Austin, where she majored in Plan II. Joan was elected to the Phi Beta Kappa Society in her senior year.

Joan was also strongly supportive of my continuing education and career as a mechanical engineer. Joan and I had many spirited conversations about the value of a liberal arts education versus one in engineering, so it is a fitting honor to create this prestigious endowment in her college and especially in Plan II, where she excelled and so enjoyed her time as a student.

Joan continued her love of The University after she graduated in 1958, through her service on The University’s Development Board, the College of Liberal Arts Advisory Council, as a Life Member of the Texas Exes, the UT Chancellor’s Council, the President’s Associates, and as a charter member of the Ex-Students Eyes of Texas Club.

The Joan Curry Scholars proudly carry the name of an alumna who was dedicated to the path they now walk. Beyond her devotion to the University, Joan loved her family and friends. Her compassionate service with the Blue Bird Circle of Houston supported the work and research of the Blue Bird Circle for Pediatric Neurology, the Blue Bird Circle Developmental Neurogenetics Laboratory, and the Blue Bird Circle Rett Center.

Joan loved all of God’s creatures, but had a special place in her heart for cats. One relative put it best, saying, “When I die, I hope to come back as a pet belonging to Joan Curry.” Joan’s proudest role was as a mother to our three children—Keys III, John and Margaret Anne—and as a grandmother to Alyssa Raine Curry and Keys A. Curry IV, who she adored. Joan and I were married happily for forty-nine years.

This endowment creates a legacy at The University of which Joan would be proud, a legacy that recognizes an inspiring woman who made the world a better place.

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