Zora Richards Bellamy of Altoona, Pa., received the 2012 Outstanding Alumna Award at Judson College’s recent alumnae weekend, J Day, April 13–14.
Her friends and co-workers said Bellamy’s life has been predicated on giving back to the community, providing leadership and creating opportunities for girls and women.
Bellamy, originally of Marion, was baptized at Siloam Baptist Church, Marion. She graduated cum laude from Judson in 1955 with a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. She later took classes at the University of Alabama to earn her teaching degree and taught math and science for two years at Monroe County High School, Monroeville.
She married William C. Bellamy in 1957 and moved to Washington, where she taught at the Congressional Schools of Northern Virginia.
She became the first woman appointed to the Blair County Planning Commission in Pennsylvania. She also served 10 years on the Altoona Planning Commission.
Bellamy became executive director of the YWCA of Altoona in 1983. She established an annual Woman of the Year award for outstanding women in business and industry and annual Triangle Awards to recognize YWCA members who were active in their church and community.
Bellamy became the executive director of the Blair County Association for the Blind and Visually Handicapped in 1988. While executive director she served on the boards of two statewide organizations — the Pennsylvania Association for the Blind and the Pennsylvania Industries for the Blind and Handicapped. She retired in 1996.
“The Alumnae Association has chosen well,” said Judson President David Potts. “The College’s alma mater speaks of a ‘beacon on a hilltop.’ Certainly, Zora Bellamy has reflected light in every facet of her life.”
Charlotte Clements, Judson’s vice president for admissions and financial aid, was honored as the recipient of the Alumnae Association’s Past Presidents Award for Staff Excellence.
Recipients of the award are evaluated on several elements including service to Judson, accomplishments and involvement in the campus community.
“Charlotte’s love for Judson both as an alumna and a staff member is unmistakable, and her desire for Judson’s prosperity inspires those who work with her,” said Jackie Davis Shivers, of Huntsville.
(JC)
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