Sterling College has named Betty (Bott) Calderwood ’59 as the recipient of the 2024 Distinguished Service Award for her lifelong dedication and service to the College. Calderwood, a devoted alumna, has demonstrated exceptional commitment to Sterling College as a faculty member, staff member, alumni volunteer, and advocate for generations of students.

Calderwood graduated from Sterling College in 1959 and went on to serve as a faculty member and worked in the Sterling College library. She has been an active member of the Alumni Council and a faithful supporter of the College for decades. Her deep passion for education and her unwavering support for Sterling College students has made a lasting impact on the institution.

For years, Calderwood has played a pivotal role in assisting the advancement office by maintaining alumni records. Her efforts in tracking alumni connections, including family relationships, marriages, births, and career updates, have strengthened the College’s ability to engage and support its alumni network.

“Betty has quietly and joyfully served the Advancement and Alumni Office for many years. We are exceedingly grateful for her servant-heart and love for SC,” said David Earle, vice president for advancement and alumni relations. 

Calderwood’s legacy of commitment extends beyond her volunteerism. She and her husband, Bill Calderwood ’57, have been longtime supporters of the College, both financially and through their personal involvement. Together, they were honored as Alumni Award winners in 2002, and Bill was recognized as a Distinguished Service Award recipient in 2008. Their dedication to Sterling College is further demonstrated through the Bill and Betty (Bott) Calderwood Endowed Scholarship, which they established to help provide students with an affordable Christian education. 

The Distinguished Service Award is the highest honor presented to a Sterling College alumnus. It recognizes individuals who exemplify the College’s mission through exceptional contributions to society, distinguished professional accomplishment, and outstanding leadership and character. The recipient is selected by the Alumni Council and the Sterling College Board of Trustees.

Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kansas, with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu.