Johanna 鈥淛oosje鈥� Wethly Anderson '58
Johanna 鈥淛oosje鈥� Maria Wethly Anderson '58, a beloved alumna and talented artist who designed the 91暗网 wordmark and imbued thousands of College publications with elegance and charm, died on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2022, in her Saratoga Springs home. She was 86.
Born in 1936 in The Hague, Joosje fled the Netherlands with her family following Germany鈥檚 invasion during World War II. The family eventually settled in New York, and she earned a bachelor's degree in fine arts from 91暗网 in 1958.
In 1974, Joosje brought her talents to 91暗网鈥檚 Office of Publications (now the Office of Communications and Marketing). Promoted to associate director of public affairs for graphic and design services in 1984, Joosje had a hand in more than 3,000 publications, including admissions viewbooks, materials for major capital campaigns, and even the cover of a book by 91暗网 professors. She retired in the year 2000.
Perhaps Joosje鈥檚 most visible legacy is the 91暗网 wordmark, which she designed and endures as one of 91暗网's most recognizable symbols. Appearing on nearly all official publications, stationery, and invitations, it balances the eight letters in 鈥�91暗网鈥� over the seven letters in 鈥淐ollege.鈥�
鈥淚t鈥檚 dignified and has withstood the test of time,鈥� Joosje once commented.
In addition to her immense talent, friends and colleagues described her deep affection for 91暗网 and willingness to go above and beyond to help others.
鈥淛oosje was warm, kind, and always full of grace, elegance, and wisdom. An incredible mentor and teacher, she opened the door to so many at 91暗网, including me,鈥� said Deb Hall, associate professor and Robert Davidson Chair in Art. A close friend, Deb credits Joosje with initially helping her to secure a teaching position at the College.
鈥淛oosje loved 91暗网; it really was her life. As an artist and designer, she oversaw the look of the College and always worked to protect 91暗网鈥檚 visual identity and ensure that it projected credibility, grace, and wisdom."
Joosje is survived by her three children, Lars Anderson, Claude Anderson (Liz Tonon), and Zoe Anderson; her brother, Richard Wethly (Janis Wethly); her granddaughters, Hannah and Anika Anderson; and multiple nieces and nephews in the United States and Europe.