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Betty Kaffenberger Celebrates Momentous Year at UST
1/5/2009
 Reaching two major milestones, 2008 marked a banner year for Betty Kaffenberger, archives records coordinator and the University’s longest-serving staff member. Kaffenberger was honored for her 50 years of service to the University and also celebrated her 80th birthday.
Kaffenberger began her career at UST as secretary to the director of development in March of 1948, less than a year after the University officially opened its doors.
“I was not familiar with University life, and I had a lot to learn,” she said. “I learned to love the University and working for the Basilian Fathers. I liked the fact they were there for you when you need them, either on the work force or in your private life – they were always there for you.”
The Basilian Fathers’ caring nature created a ripple effect shared by the University community, Kaffenberger said. “My many St. Thomas friends have been with me through so much in my life. They came to my wedding and they were there when I lost my husband and my son.”
Over the years, Kaffenberger has worked in many capacities. After her initial assignment as secretary to the director of development, Kaffenberger served as secretary to the president, secretary to the treasurer, payroll clerk, supervisor of payroll and benefits, director of financial aid, assistant to the treasurer, and director of personnel/payroll. In December 1993, Kaffenberger retired, only to return in 1998 to work in the Office of the Registrar and volunteer in the archives.
“If anyone in March of 1948 would have said I would be working on the campus in 2008, I would have laughed,” Kaffenberger said. “But here I am, and I am extremely proud to have been a part of the University of St. Thomas for all these years. It is very rewarding to see the campus grow from only one block – bordered by Montrose, Yoakum, Sul Ross and West Alabama – to what it is today. I have been privileged to work under the leadership of all the University presidents, and now I have the honor of working in the archives where I can help preserve the University’s history and treasures.”
Kaffenberger’s 50 years of service to the University span over 60 years. Though her employment at UST was not continuous, her deep affection for the University always gave her a reason to return.
“It’s my love for the University that kept me coming back, and brings me back here after all these years,” she said. “I truly believe it’s the place for me to be. St. Thomas has given so much to the Houston community and continues to be a gift to the city.”
When the University recognized Kaffenberger’s 50th employment anniversary, she declined any tokens of appreciation. “I have my watch, and so many gifts from the University that I cherish.” Instead, the University made a contribution to the Wayne Kaffenberger Endowed Scholarship Fund, which Kaffenberger established in honor of her late son.
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