September 2014 Seahawk of the Week - Q&A with alumna
and donor Keturi Beatty '05
Keturi graduated in 2005 with degrees in Communication Studies and Spanish. She and her husband,
Blair '04, live in Texas, where Keturi serves as the Senior Director of Development at the University of
North Texas. UNCW is proud to recognize the Beattys as UNCW Society Ambassadors and Founding
Members of the Clocktower Society.
What do you love most about UNCW?
I love everything about UNCW. I loved the professors. The quality of my professors was incredible
(special shout out to Dr. David Weber and Valerie Rider!!!). They are passionate, dedicated, student
focused, inspiring, and genuinely great people, too. Advising (Ginny Guerry is amazing) was supportive
and encouraging, and I loved being involved in greek life (Go Chi O), club sports (Lacrosse) and being an
orientation leader. I have such great memories from my time at UNCW- and who doesn't love being close
to the beach!?
What organizations were you a part of as a student?
Chi Omega, Lacrosse Club Team, Orientation Leader, Seahawk Links (My friend Chris and I were the first
leaders)
How did UNCW prepare you for your career?
So much about my Seahawk experience prepared me for my current role. The most significant factors
that led to my current role was my experience as an orientation leader, and my capstone class with Dr.
Weber in communication studies. I align passions, for a living. OLs do much of the same. They get new
students excited about school, they connect them to their passions and interests at UNCW, and they are
the champions and first impressions of the organization. I do the very same thing today. In addition, my
capstone class with Dr. Weber taught me how to represent myself well, to network, and the value of
informational interviews. I found my way to Development through a series of informational interviews.
Thank you, Dr. Weber!!!
What is your favorite place in Wilmington?
Driving down Airlie Road (our daughter is named Airlie after Airlie Road) on our way to the beach.
What has motivated your generous and loyal support?
I give back to UNCW because I am profoundly grateful for my education, and I want to pay it forward and
strengthen the experience for current students generations of future Seahawks. I didn't say it first, but I'll
agree that "only the educated are free." I get happy every time I make a gift to UNCW - huge giant smilebecause I know I'm making someone else happy in the process. My heart is teal.
What would you say to encourage other alumni to make an annual gift to
UNCW?
Giving back is a tangible indicator of school strength. I know that UNCW alumni are so proud to be
Seahawks, and grateful for UNCW's impact on their lives. Giving back is a way to raise your hand and
say "yes! I believe in UNCW. I love this place. I am grateful for my experience. And I want UNCW to stay
strong." Giving back is a part of school spirit, school pride, and paying it forward.