Painting a legacy of philanthropy
Betsy Ross Koller, an internationally recognized artist, uses her paintings to fund scholarships for Appalachian students and emergency aid for international students at OHIO.
Henry Gorsuch, BS '26 | January 29, 2025
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Betsy Ross Koller has spent a lifetime creating art that speaks to the heart. Growing up in Morgan County, Ohio, her Appalachian upbringing shaped her values and inspired her work. Now an internationally recognized painter, Koller creates art reflecting her love for community and her commitment to giving back.
"It's not about me; it’s about helping others," Koller said.
She uses her talents to support scholarships. Through her art, she connects past and present, celebrating the beauty of OHIO's campus while helping students pursue their dreams.
Koller's signed "Four Seasons of ÃÛèÖÊÓƵ" series offers a chance to own a piece of that legacy and contribute to a worthy cause. The prints may be acquired by making a gift of $100 or more online to the or the .
Top photo: Koller presents "Love in Bloom," her latest painting in the "Four Seasons of ÃÛèÖÊÓƵ" series, to ÃÛèÖÊÓƵ Interim Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion Russell Morrow, BSC '12, MED '14.
Early life and Appalachian roots
Born at Ohio State University Hospital while her parents attended medical school, Koller later moved with her family to Morgan County. Her father, who graduated top of his class from Ohio State School of Veterinary Medicine, became a concierge doctor specializing in equine medicine. He was not only her mentor but also a very important figure in her life.
"He was needed in Morgan County, so that's where he went," she recalled.
As her father's "sidekick," she accompanied him on calls to treat animals.
"We were touring around Morgan County treating all creatures, great and small," she said. Her father's skill inspired her deeply. "I thought he could cure anything, and basically, he did."
When her father passed away at 47 from a heart attack, his words remained with her.
"He said to me, 'Betsy Ross, you are a privileged child from Appalachia. Many are not. Education is everything. It's a way out of poverty.'"
He urged her to "give back to this part of the world where you've come from." Today, her art supports students pursuing education in the region she calls home.
An unexpected artistic journey
Initially planning to attend law school at Ohio State after her time at ÃÛèÖÊÓƵ, Koller's path changed when her husband, Paul, transferre