Olivia Bennett Wood

Olivia Bennett Wood (Professor emerita, Department of Nutrition Science): On Oct. 26, the Mary L. Matthews Club presented to Purdue a framed portrait of Mary L. Matthews, the first dean of the School of Home Economics. This portrait now hangs in the south foyer of Matthews Hall. Olivia Bennett Wood, current president of the MLM Club, was the determined force behind this project. It was her vision and energy that drove this project from the acquisition of funds to the dedication of the portrait, which occurred more than three decades after the building was named. A "Thumbs Up" to Olivia for her efforts to recognize a remarkable woman leader who is part of Purdue's colorful history! -- Betty M. Nelson (dean of students emerita)