Dr. Teresa Shirlene Branch attended the University of California, Berkeley, earning a B.A. in Psychology in 1971. Her academic pursuits then led her to the State University of New York in Albany, where she initially explored her parents desire for her to become an attorney. However, her evolving academic interests led her to develop a passion for the study of human behavior and cognition. This transformative journey culminated at the University of Washington in Seattle, where Teresa obtained a Ph.D. in clinical psychology before the age of 25. Upon completing her Ph.D., Teresa transitioned into a role as a psychologist in the counseling center at the University of Washington, providing support to students navigating their academic journeys.

It was during this period that her husband expressed a desire to relocate to Arizona, prompting an enticing invitation from her brother-in-law to apply for a Clinical Psychologist position at Arizona State University. Teresa embraced this opportunity, applied for, and secured the position embarking on a distinguished 16-year tenure at Arizona State University that would shape her professional legacy. Demonstrating exceptional leadership at Arizona State University, she ascended through the ranks, achieving the historic milestone of becoming the first female of African American descent to serve as Vice President of Student Affairs.

Teresa's commitment extended beyond her institution, actively engaging and serving in leadership roles at the American College Personnel Association (ACPA) and the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA). Subsequently, Teresa continued her distinguished career as Associate Vice President at Iowa State University, further contributing to the academic landscape.Her journey continued at the University of Montana (UM), where Teresas profound influence was memorialized through the establishment and dedication of the UM Branch Center; this dedication pays tribute to her unwavering commitment to cultivating a campus atmosphere that encourages respectful and collaborative dialogue, meaningful programming, and resources in order to ultimately foster the celebration of diversity and inclusion.

Teresas leadership style, characterized by openness, honesty, and directness, played a pivotal role in nurturing teamwork and achieving common goals and objectives. Her success was marked by her ascension through the administrative ladder, exemplified by notable roles such as Director of the Counseling Center, Assistant Vice President, and ultimately Vice President of Student Affairs. In 2016, Teresa concluded her career at the University of Montana.

Teresas legacy is continued by her devoted son and his wife; her 5 grandchildren. Additionally, she is survived by her four bonus daughters; her family extends to ten bonus grandchildren: alongside a multitude of bonus great-grandchildren, as well as other dear family and friends.

Teresa was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Arthur Stanley Sr., and her parents, Wilks and Shirley Branch, whose aspirations she once endeavored to fulfill.

In honor of Dr. Teresa Branch, wear a touch of purple on the day we Celebrate her Life.