The Woodward Alumni Hall of Fame Association
Beth Carol Henderson Inducted 2025 - Class of 1960
A Renaissance woman, Beth Henderson had a wide range of interests, talents, hobbies, and careers! She played the clarinet in Woodward’s band, directed by Sam Szor, and participated in musicals and Extravs. English teacher Marie Ersig inspired and motivated Beth to teach English.
She graduated from Bowling Green State University and held a variety of teaching positions throughout her career and beginning in New York state before joining the Peace Corps. She worked with them teaching in Western Samoa and Washington, DC, where she trained Peace Corp volunteers for work overseas. Beth then took a position teaching at an American boarding school in England before returning stateside and settling in Maine where she spent a year teaching at the Passamaquoddy Indian Reservation.
Beth also led student trips and student exchanges to the former Soviet Union. She earned her master’s degree from the University of Maine and a certificate of advanced study from Harvard School of Education. Following her strong interest in the environment, she became the first woman Ranger in the state of Maine.
Following her passion for creating and learning, Beth became a well-known multimedia sculptor in the Northeast. She lived a very full life with diverse interests.
Where did Beth attend grade school and/or junior high school? Kleis grade school, Point Place Junior High
In what neighborhood did she live while attending Woodward? Please describe it. Point Place- great caring neighbors, fun, safe
Who were her best friends while attending Woodward? Jim Frankowski
Who were her favorite teachers at Woodward? Why? Sam Szor, band director- highly respected his knowledge of music and the person he was. Excellent director
Did any Woodward staff members have a profound effect on her? Who? In what way did they affect her? Mrs. Marie Essig- taught English- fantastic teacher- inspired Beth to teach English
Please share one of her favorite memories of Woodward. The band- most of her friends and activities revolved around the band. She played 1st seat clarinet
Was Beth married? Please tell us about her family members-- children, grandchildren, etc. Not married at the time of her death and no children; special nephew Heath Henderson and great niece Haley Henderson Hurt
What were Beth’s hobbies? What did she do for fun? Artist- mixed media, stone sculpture, encaustic. Beth’s art was displayed and sold in many galleries throughout Maine. Her family was thrilled for Beth. She was a very modest person who, if alive, would have been stunned by the nomination.