Johanna “Joosje” Wethly Anderson '58
Johanna “Joosje” Maria Wethly Anderson '58, a beloved alumna and talented artist who designed the Skidmore College 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’s invasion during World War II. The family eventually settled in New York, and she earned a bachelor's degree in fine arts from Skidmore in 1958.
In 1974, Joosje brought her talents to Skidmore’s 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 Skidmore professors. She retired in the year 2000.
Perhaps Joosje’s most visible legacy is the Skidmore wordmark, which she designed and endures as one of Skidmore's most recognizable symbols. Appearing on nearly all official publications, stationery, and invitations, it balances the eight letters in “Skidmore” over the seven letters in “College.”
“It’s dignified and has withstood the test of time,” Joosje once commented.
In addition to her immense talent, friends and colleagues described her deep affection for Skidmore and willingness to go above and beyond to help others.
“Joosje was warm, kind, and always full of grace, elegance, and wisdom. An incredible mentor and teacher, she opened the door to so many at Skidmore, including me,” 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.
“Joosje loved Skidmore; it really was her life. As an artist and designer, she oversaw the look of the College and always worked to protect Skidmore’s 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.