The Pursuit of Knowledge By AMY CHARLES, MBA ’23
The impact of Pike County native Georgia Lee Branham Damron ’43, ’63 extends far beyond the knowledge she imparted. At 98 years old, she remains a living embodiment of the values the University of Pikeville holds dear: the pursuit of knowledge and continued service to the community. Damron grew up in a modest but nurturing home, where her desire to become a teacher began at an early age. After demonstrating her intelligence, she was double-promoted in 22
UPIKE MAGAZINE | FALL/WINTER 2023
two separate academic years, which meant she finished high school at age 16. Her grandfather, George F. Johnson, for whom the elementary school in Virgie, Ky., was named, encouraged her to attend college and offered to pay for her tuition on the condition that she room on campus with her cousin Ruby Johnson ’43. The pair made Derriana Hall their home for the next two years, cheering for their beloved Bears at basketball games. Damron made the most of her time in college as a member of the yearbook staff, International Relations Club, Y.W.C.A., Dramatics Club, Future Teachers of Kentucky and Women’s Athletic Association.
