[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 116 (Thursday, July 16, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E702]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING THE LIFE OF DR. BETTY LOUISE HARRAH

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. VICTORIA SPARTZ

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 16, 2026

  Mrs. SPARTZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Dr. Betty Louise 
Harrah of Delaware County, a Navy veteran and long-term Ball State 
University official, who celebrated her 100th birthday in March 2026. 
Born in Bloomington, Indiana, she was the only daughter of Herbert and 
Elsie Harrah and the second oldest of four children. After moving to 
Bloomfield at the age of two, she graduated from Bloomfield High School 
in 1944.
  Harrah attended Indiana University, where she earned her bachelor's 
degree in government, and later pursued graduate study at Washington 
State University on a fellowship, working in the university's residence 
halls. She ultimately returned to Indiana University and completed her 
doctorate in 1969.
  While at Washington State, Harrah applied for a Navy commission and 
entered service in 1951 as an Ensign. She served our Nation with 
distinction for 35 years, retiring in 1986 at the rank of Commander, a 
groundbreaking achievement for that era. During her service, she 
trained in locations such as Newport, Rhode Island and Seattle, 
Washington. She often reflects that the travel and lessons in working 
with people were among the most formative parts of her career.
  Following her military service and completion of her doctorate, 
Harrah returned to Indiana and joined Ball State University, where she 
served as director of residence hall personnel until her retirement in 
1986.
  In retirement, Harrah remained in Muncie and has lived at Westminster 
Village Nursing Home since 2002. She continues to stay active through 
puzzles and computer games. Those who know her describe her as 
remarkably tech-savvy even today. Family has always remained central in 
her life. Though her brothers have passed on, she maintains close 
relationships with her nieces and nephews, who speak of her with deep 
admiration and gratitude for the example she has set.
  Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Indiana's 5th District, I 
express profound appreciation to Dr. Betty Louise Harrah for her 
lifetime of service both in uniform and in higher education. Her 
dedication, leadership, and integrity have left a lasting impact on all 
who have known her.

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