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HCC's Dr. Betty Fortune honored with Talent Strong Texas Pathways Institute’s Cynthia Ferrell Pathways Star of Excellence Award

Nov 22, 2024

From left to right: Chancellor Margaret Ford Fisher, Dr. Betty Fortune, Dr. Martha Ellis, and Dr. Norma Perez pose for a photo to commemorate Dr. Fortune's acceptance of Cynthia Ferrell Pathways Star of Excellence Award.

Dr. Betty Fortune, interim associate vice chancellor for Student Retention and Completion at Houston Community College (HCC), has been named the recipient of the prestigious Cynthia Ferrell Pathways Star of Excellence Award.

The award bestowed by the Texas Success Center recognizes an individual with steadfast commitment to student success and who inspires, motivates and collaborates to remove barriers for students while elevating the college experience.

Dr. Fortune’s efforts in creating equitable and transformative educational opportunities have made her a pivotal figure in higher education. The award was presented to Dr. Fortune at an institute meeting held in Fort Worth this month.

“I am greatly honored to play a part in HCC’s mission of creating pathways for students to succeed,” Dr. Fortune said. “I come to work each day ready to try to make a difference in the lives of students.”

The award was established in honor of Dr. Cynthia Ferrell, former executive director of the Texas Success Center who was a visionary leader who created lasting partnerships across the state’s community colleges.

At HCC, Dr. Fortune plays a critical role in aligning the college’s goals with strategies aimed at ensuring student achievement. Her leadership includes overseeing major initiatives like Talent Strong Texas Pathways, Houston Guided Pathways, Achieving the Dream and Caring Campus for Faculty and Staff, all of which are designed to support students along their college journeys.

“Dr. Fortune’s career spans decades of outstanding work in advancing student success,” said Chancellor Margaret Ford Fisher, Ed.D. “Betty has proven again and again her deeply held commitment to ensure that every HCC student receives the support they need to succeed, no matter their background. She is making a huge difference in the lives of students.”

Chancellor Ford Fisher recognized Dr. Fortune at HCC’s most recent Board of Trustees meeting to rousing applause from the gathered audience.

Dr. Fortune received a bachelor’s degree from Southern University and earned a master’s degree in education from Prairie View A&M University. She earned her doctorate in higher education from Texas Southern University.