UNT alumna and Professor Emeritus Georgia "Billie" Gough remains dedicated to supporting her alma mater more than 70 years after graduation.

"My husband and I started our careers there," says Georgia. "UNT really helped us grow. We never had any children so UNT is our family."

After earning a master's degree from UNT in 1946, Georgia was a UNT professor for 25 years and continues to support the school into her retirement.

She and her late husband, Ray, consistently contributed to the university over the last 35 years, supporting areas such as the UNT Alumni Association, UNT libraries and the Inspire UNT Fund. However, they are most dedicated to the College of Visual Art and Design, having two scholarships in their name as well as a lecture series named in honor of her husband. Ray ('40, '41 M.S.) and Georgia ('46 M.S.) both hold the distinction of professor emeritus of art at UNT, an honor bestowed upon a professor who has retired from a tenured position of at least 10 years with a record of distinguished service. In 2004, the Goughs were recognized with UNT's Green Glory Award for exceptional service to the university.

"I love the friendliness, quality of education and the overall atmosphere," says Georgia. "There's nothing like being on campus."

Georgia recently donated $150,000 to establish the Ray and Georgia Gough Research Fund in Interiors, Fibers, Ceramics, Jewelry, Metals and Related.

"This gift is important because it is potentially eligible for the Texas Research Incentive Program (TRIP)," says David Wolf, vice president for advancement. TRIP is a state-matching grant program that supports research and research-enhancing activities of the university. "We are grateful to donors like Georgia Gough for her continued support and dedication to UNT and its students."

"UNT is a place where your gift will grow and continue to make an impact that lasts forever," says Georgia.

If you want to learn more about supporting UNT and its students for years to come, please contact Roy Grisham, CPCU at 940-565-3686 or roy.grisham@unt.edu.