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Through more than four decades, since completing professional studies in architecture at Washington University, Saint Louis, Betty Lou Custer has exhibited extraordinary dedication to the profession and has pioneered in strengthening its institutions.

Diversified experience with a consulting engineer, the Saint Louis Planning Commission and Harris Armstrong, FAIA, offered Betty Lou Custer a firm base of professional insight and skill on which she founded her own firm in 1954. By then, she had become the first Saint Louis woman registered by the State of Missouri as an architect, the first woman member of the Saint Louis Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, and she had served for two years as national president of the Association of Women in Architecture.

In the years which followed, Custer participated in the Saint Louis Chapter AIA in myriad capacities: chairing committees, initiating new community outreach programs, writing newsletters and stories, representing the Chapter at regional and national conventions, as a member of national committees, holding Chapter office and serving on its board of directors. Indicative of the remarkable role she played are the special recognitions for service presented to her 18 and 25 years after she joined the Saint Louis Chapter. Thus, by 1970 Betty Lou Custer had received two of only three such awards the Chapter had ever presented.

Not surprising was the action taken by the College of Fellows of the American Institute of Architects when it elevated her to Fellowship in 1972. Less predictable, but no less fitting, was Custer's selection as Executive Vice President of the Chapter in the same year.

In the years since, Betty Lou Custer has played a pivotal role in the continued development of the Chapter which has become increasingly important and visible in supporting professional, continuing and public education; in assuring strong communications with other building industry groups; and in serving its own membership. Not only is Betty Lou the person who has the answers to questions about any and everything related to the Saint Louis Chapter, she serves as trusted advisor for hundreds of students, intern-architects and practitioners who recognize the importance of her experience and insight. Her counsel is given freely and directly; one is never uncertain about what Betty Lou Custer has meant. The academic and professional development of scores of Saint Louisans who have studied in the College of Architecture and Design has been nurtured through her counseling efforts and through Chapter programs she initiated, developed or administered.

Betty Lou Custer's career offers a model of achievement and service embodying the highest values of the professions for which the College prepares its students.