TRIBUTE TO DR. BETTY MÉNDEZ DE PÉREZ

This act of homage to the one who deserves it, to the one who is still with us, to the one who really forged a generation of physical anthropologists guided by a deep knowledge of the subject, scientific rigor and standards of duty, behavior and punctuality, consistent with a research professional, was undoubtedly worthwhile.

Why? Because it allowed us to celebrate with a sincere motive, admiration and respect, because it united in a single day, students, colleagues from different parts of the world, her family, always with a common memory, Prof. Betty.

Because it contributed to every member of Asesórate, adding a good idea, so that the event was a success, so that no one or nothing was missing, so that our Honoree felt at home. One more example that teamwork is what works. Thank you!

Because, in addition, it is evident that time passes, but people and their deeds remain. This is very important. It allows to discern with clarity and certainty that you did not make a mistake in your path, that you found great people in it and that walking together, forming teams, is what enhances the value of science.

For my part, I feel happy, satisfied. I can say, a tribute that was conceived from the sincere affection, admiration and gratitude to a great teacher.

I think the best way to write this Let's talk about the event, is by several hands. I now pass the pen to Josefa, who has been the architect in the consolidation of this event and who, having listened to the words of our honoree, expresses: “...The summary we have heard is a beautiful memory of her life. And precisely, I would like to take advantage of this space to share a brief academic reflection on the subject: The usefulness of memories in research. Memory is not just a nostalgic recollection. In science, memory, understood as the sum of trajectory, experience and documented legacy, is an essential tool. The legacy of Dr. Méndez that we celebrate today is irrefutable proof of this. In research, especially in Physical or Biological Anthropology, memory operates at two crucial levels and Dr. Méndez has been a constant reference for her academic demand, ethics, discipline and order in research. This is methodological memory in action. She has taught us that the way research is conducted is as vital as the result. The memory of her rigor is what prevents us from making past mistakes and what ensures the quality of the data today. It is his example of how to get a measurement right, how to interpret data, and how to maintain scientific integrity. His commitment to order made it clear to us that rigorous methodology must be an institutional memory that is passed on from generation to generation, ensuring that knowledge is cumulative and reliable.

The second level is the documentary memory, which is embodied in his valuable scientific production. His recent article: “Academic journey: from curiosity to specialty.” published in the journal Anales de Nutrición (2025, https://doi.org/10.54624/2025.38.1.005 ) exhibits what is a memory in itself. He not only presents data, but contextualizes his journey, offering the map of an intellectual journey of great magnitude, in which each of us has played our part. His work becomes, once again, a bibliographic reference of the first order. His constancy and dedication reflect that memory is not static, it is a dynamic memory that is continually updated.

Professor Betty's Anthropology is not a museum discipline, it is an applied science that has strengthened fields such as health, nutrition and sports. This is where the usefulness of this memoir becomes tangible.

Today, as we celebrate her academic and human legacy, we are celebrating the usefulness of memory personified. Profe Betty has left us more than articles; she has left us a didactic memory in the classroom, an ethical memory in research and an affective memory in every sustained encounter. She taught us that the best way to honor the scientific past is not only to remember it, but to use it to move forward. She is the integral colleague and the constant referent of a journey of excellence, curiosity and commitment...”

Dear Profe Betty - Dr. Betty Méndez de Pérez: the mark you have left on us is not just a memory. It is the living memory that drives us. Thank you, we have learned a lot. Thank you for your immense legacy!

Josefa Orfila - Adelaida Struck - Rita Amelii - Mony Vidal - Francisco J Fernandez