Betty Freeman
Betty Freeman
Betty Freeman is passionate about bringing a world-class performing arts center to the Eastside, which has been her home for more than 40 years. She has two daughters and five grandchildren with husband Kemper Freeman, Jr., and would like them to feel the same connection to the performing arts that she experienced as a child watching newsreels of Bob Hope and his band of entertainers performing for American troops stationed abroad. "The performing arts provide each of us with a way to separate, for a brief time, from the challenges of life," says Betty. "Performances lift our spirits and help us refocus, making all things seem possible."
Since marrying here in 1965 after being introduced by friends on a blind date, Betty and Kemper have become an integral force behind the growth of Bellevue and the Eastside. While Kemper is known for his business acumen, Betty's influence originates from her exemplary service to the community. She recognizes specifically the importance of a rich cultural life to the Eastside, and so Betty's involvement with the arts began in 1991 with her work as a volunteer for Standing Ovation, described in their mission statement as the leading Eastside arts funding, supporting, and advocacy organization. Her involvement as a key volunteer lasted for nearly a decade, during which she served as Gala co-chair and also on the fundraising, advisory board, and membership committees. In 2002, Betty received the Award for Volunteerism in the Arts from the Junior League of Seattle. She has also been lauded for her volunteer work on behalf of Overlake Hospital Foundation, Children's Hospital, Bellevue Arts Museum, and Overlake Service League.
Today, her service to the arts continues with PACE, which was established as a nonprofit in 2002. In June 2003, Betty was one of three women who recognized the need to create a fundraising guild for PACE. The newly formed Act One Guild set their sights high, recruited membership that has grown to over 40 women, and have raised nearly $1 million through their annual signature Candlelight Dinner events. Betty now serves on the PACE Board of Directors and, along with her husband and Chuck and Karen Lytle, co-chairs the $160 million Campaign For PACE. "Bellevue has grown into a vibrant city, and once our new 2,000-seat performing arts center is open, everything will be in place for a solid cultural infrastructure anchored by PACE," says Betty. "Kemper and I can't wait for opening day. Families like ours will be able to attend performances together to create wonderful memories and a love for the arts that will be transferred from generation to generation."