10/16/2025
It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of our beloved colleague, Dr. Elizabeth “Betty” Dore, Professor Emeritus of Education. Dr. Dore retired from Radford University in 2020 after 24 years of dedicated service, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, compassion, and transformative impact on the field of education.
Dr. Dore joined Radford University in 1996 as an Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Studies (now the School of Teacher Education and Leadership) and was promoted to professor in 2008. She led the Middle Education program with distinction, developing and teaching ten different undergraduate and graduate courses, supervising field experiences, and cultivating strong partnerships with six regional school divisions. Her work helped shape a generation of middle school educators, many of whom continue to serve in the region—eleven of whom have been honored as “Teacher of the Year” by their schools or divisions.
A passionate scholar, Dr. Dore authored over 30 publications and numerous presentations at local, state, and national conferences. She was a nationally recognized leader in middle school education, serving as Executive Director and President of the Virginia Middle School Association, and as President of the National Association of Professors of Middle Level Education. In 2006, she became the inaugural recipient of the Outstanding Middle School Educator Award from the National Middle School Association.
Dr. Dore’s commitment to Radford University was reflected in her willingness to take on any role where she could make a difference. She served on numerous committees across the department, school, college, and university, and held leadership roles including Assistant Director of the School of Teacher Education and Leadership and Coordinator of the Master’s in Education program. In 2010, she received the Radford University Distinguished Faculty Advising Award, recognizing her exceptional commitment to mentoring and supporting students.
Dr. Dore’s service to Radford University extended far beyond the classroom. For 14 years, Dr. Dore served as the university’s NCAA Faculty Athletics Representative, acting as a vital liaison between athletics and academics. She represented Radford on the Big South Board of Administrators and the Big South Council of Faculty Athletics Representatives, and was a familiar, enthusiastic presence at Highlander games—especially men’s basketball.
But perhaps Dr. Dore’s most enduring legacy lies in her warmth, generosity, and unwavering kindness. She remembered every birthday, offered comfort during difficult times, and celebrated others’ successes with genuine joy. Her Monday afternoon homemade treats, her boundless energy (often accomplishing more before 8 a.m. than most of us did all day), and her adventurous spirit—including skydiving on her 70th birthday—are cherished memories that reflect her vibrant personality.
She was also a gifted quilter, known for the beautiful blankets she lovingly created and gifted to others—a symbol of the care and creativity she brought to every aspect of her life.
Dr. Betty Dore’s impact on our college, our students, and our lives is immeasurable. She will be deeply missed, but her spirit lives on in the work we do and the care we show one another. We offer our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing her.
A link to Dr. Dore's tribute page can be found here: https://staplesfuneralhome.com/obituaries/elizabeth-dore
