Friends and Family celebrate the career of Dr. Beth Hudson

By Dewey Terrill

JC Post

Dr. Beth Hudson began her career in Geary USD 475 began as a bookkeeper at Junction City High School and rose to the highest level of administration in the school district. On Thursday friends, family, current and former co-workers gathered at the Devin Center to congratulate Hudson on her career and wish her well as she prepares to retire from the school district at the end of June.

Hudson is currently the Associate Superintendent of Schools for USD 475, but she has served three different stints as the Interim Superintendent. Her feelings on Thursday were mixed. “I’m so glad to see all my friends and have such good memories from so many of these folks. But on the other hand I’m excited about what’s ahead to.” Hudson added she loved to teach in the classroom, but the favorite part of her different jobs was during her time as Director of Elementary Education when she got to work with the teachers on a regular daily basis.

Hudson, herself, served as a teacher at Jefferson Elementary, Ware Elementary and Eisenhower Elementary School during her time in USD 475.

Former Associate Superintendent of Schools Pat Anderson attended the reception at the Devin Center. “It’s really fun to come back and see all these people. Beth certainly has made an impression as she carried out the great work here in the district. It’s delightful to go back over some memories and laugh, and see all the people as well.” At one point Anderson supervised Hudson as she performed the duties of the Director of Elementary Education. She remembered Hudson as a sensitive, thoughtful and caring person. “Well aware of the history of our community, the need to honor our military families and all the diversity in the community, and she was just an outstanding choice for that work.”

( Beth Hudson’s siblings – L-R back row ) Larry Myers, Mike Myers, front row – Dr. Beth Hudson and Kathy Tremont.

Hudson’s siblings, Mike and Larry Myers and Kathy Tremont were all in attendance. Tremont enjoyed having all of them together. “I know it meant a lot to Beth. When there are times like this it’s always important to have your family there so I’m happy everybody was able to be here today.” Tremont remembered during their youth her brothers played sports while she and Beth were cheerleaders. “We were always a family on the go. We had a lot of things going on but mom ( Katie Myers ) always had cookies and supper every night, and noon every day so that’s the type of family we grew up in.” As to who was the better cheerleader Tremont responded firmly with a chuckle, “I think I was! ”

Tremont stated she has told her sister multiple times she has always admired her for her integrity and work ethic., and she complimented Hudson for serving as the fearless leader for her siblings.

Former Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mary Devin led off the program portion of the reception, pointing out in every job Hudson held in the school district she did well, rising from JCHS bookkeeper to serve as Associate and Interim Superintendent. The two-hour reception attracted a strong turnout to the Board of Education meeting room at the Devin Center.