Betty J. Ruth Awarded Emerita Title at BUSSW

BU School of Social Work (BUSSW) has awarded Betty J. Ruth the title of clinical professor emerita, an honor bestowed on faculty who have made exceptional contributions to the School and the social work field. The recognition follows Ruth’s retirement from BUSSW in December 2020. 

An alumna of both Boston University School of Social Work and School of Public Health, Ruth has been a member of the BUSSW faculty for more than three decades. Among her many accomplishments and contributions to the School, Ruth is known for cultivating the MSW/MPH program from a burgeoning BU partnership into a nationwide model for public health social work education. 

Professor Judith Gonyea, associate dean of faculty affairs at BUSSW, says, “Faculty voted overwhelmingly to award Betty Ruth the title of clinical professor emerita. It is a title that we all agree is well-deserved and reflects the faculty’s deep regard and respect for Betty’s many contributions to the School.”

To learn more about Betty Ruth’s remarkable career and contributions, read Dean Delva’s letter to our community.

A scholarship fund for BUSSW students has been created as a tribute to Ruth and her husband, former associate dean for enrollment services and alumni relations Ken Schulman, who also retired from the School in 2020. To give back to BUSSW in their honor, visit the Betty J. Ruth & Ken Schulman Scholarship Fund webpage.