Bettie Duff’s journey with the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance spans nearly five decades, shaping the organization’s legacy and growth in ways few others could claim. Her story, however, begins long before The Alliance, in the classrooms of Dallas, Texas.
Bettie graduated from the University of North Texas with a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Minor in English. She began her career teaching in the Dallas Public School System before a fateful move to Austin changed her path.
It was on a tennis court in Austin where Bettie first met Dr. William T. Hold and his wife, Nina—a meeting that would lead to a 45-year commitment to the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance.
“When I joined what was then called the Society of CIC, we had four employees, no computers, and participant records were kept on 4” x 6” index cards,” Bettie recalls. “We even had to hand-press the CIC gold seals for the diplomas and hand-cut the red ribbons that were attached.”
Bettie watched firsthand as The Alliance evolved from its modest beginnings. In the early years, she was part of the team that expanded the CIC Program from four courses to five, adding Life & Health in 1980 and assisted Dr. Hold in procuring CIC’s first computer – The Wang! As The Alliance gained recognition across the country, Bettie’s role expanded along with it, and she’s since held numerous positions within the organization.
Today, Bettie serves as Corporate Secretary and is a member of The Alliance’s Executive Team. She acts as a liaison to the Board of Governors and Directors while also sharing historical events with new employees and providing invaluable customer support to loyal participants and designees.
Reflecting on her remarkable career, Bettie shares, “It has been an honor to work alongside outstanding insurance professionals like Mr. James K. Ruble, Dr. Hold, prominent Board members, and our many expert faculty and Educational Consultants. Dr. Hold has been a mentor and friend throughout these years, and now working with his son, William, as our President and CEO, is truly an exceptional blessing.”
Bettie’s dedication, passion, and commitment to our mission have made her an integral part of the Risk & Insurance Education Alliance, and her story continues to inspire both her colleagues and the wider community.
