Passport to Possibility

Jim Graham, former academic dean and longtime professor of English, believed deeply in the power of global education — and he made it part of Central’s DNA.

As dean and professor of English, Graham helped launch Central’s first study abroad programs. For decades, he and his wife, Martha Betancourt, associate professor emerita of Spanish, championed language, literature and cultural learning. Whether in the classroom, on the tennis court or hosting the Spanish Bowl, Jim’s influence left a mark on generations of students.

Now, alumni and friends are coming together to honor his legacy and to say thank you for their own life changing experiences in study abroad through the Jim Graham International Education Fund. This endowed fund supports Central students studying abroad — whether for a full semester or a faculty-led program.

Graham passed away this year at the age of 99, but his legacy lives on in every life he touched. Now, you can help that legacy grow. By supporting this endowment, you’re not just honoring Jim’s memory — you’re opening the world to more students, giving them the life-changing opportunity for off-campus experiences and see their education come to life in ways they never imagined.