Philanthropists and long-time Texas education supporters John H. and Elizabeth “Libba” Shatto Massey have donated $1.5 million to The University of Texas at Austin’s College of Education to create the Elizabeth Shatto Massey Endowed Chair in Education.
Funds from the permanent endowment will be used to engage a nationally prominent scholar whose research and instruction will advance first-rate, innovative technology use in teacher education and to sponsor education conferences and visiting scholars. The endowment may also be used to support research fellowships for doctoral students who work with the Chair holder.
“Libba and John Massey have been benefactors and friends of the College of Education and supported our work for so many years now,” said Manuel J. Justiz, dean of the College of Education, “This latest donation addresses a core priority in the college, which is to be leaders in innovation and science-driven teacher education. The Masseys have a keen grasp of the field of education and are insightful and future-oriented. They understand the importance of educating teachers who can seamlessly incorporate technology in their classrooms.”
The Masseys also have established the Elizabeth Shatto Massey Scholarship in Education and the Hill Bank and Trust Endowed Educational Scholarship Fund in the College of Education. These academic scholarships were created to benefit Colorado County youth who are preparing for a career in teaching.
Elizabeth Massey, a College of Education graduate and former public school teacher, is a longtime member of the College of Education’s Education Foundation Advisory Council and serves as chair. She is chair-elect of the Development Board of The University of Texas at Austin, a member of the Executive Committee of the University of Texas System’s Chancellor’s Council and co-chair of The University of Texas at Austin’s Campaign for Texas. She also is a member of the Texas Exes Board of Directors. The Elizabeth Shatto Massey Award for Excellence in Teacher Education, administered by the Texas Exes, recognizes exceptional University of Texas at Austin faculty who are engaged in teacher preparation. Ms. Massey recently completed nine years of service as a trustee of Highland Park Independent School District.
“We envision that this endowment will help the College continue to investigate education policies, curriculum and technologies that combine to produce superior education outcomes,” said John Massey. “Libba and I believe in public education and feel there is no more important investment than in teachers and students. It is absolutely crucial that youth receive an education that allows them to enter the adult workforce and thrive in a 21st century economy. We want to help The University of Texas at Austin’s College of Education lead that effort.”
U.S. News and World Report magazine ranks the College of Education in the top five nationally among public universities and number one overall in research expenditures.
