Hanna Bett

A transformative benefactor to Edinburgh Medical School, Hanna expanded access and opportunity for students through targeted philanthropy.

Following the death of her husband, Murray, Hanna gifted five gold coins to the University of Edinburgh Development Trust to support widening participation – initiatives that broaden access to higher education for people from under-represented backgrounds. This has helped enable fully funded overseas elective placements for students from Scotland. In her will, she left over $1 million USD to further reduce financial barriers, allowing Edinburgh medical students to advance their studies without undue cost.

Hanna also devoted her life to patient care. She was a registered nurse and a certified registered nurse anesthetist. A committed volunteer with the Red Cross and a community blood programme, Hanna also served on an advisory board.

Hanna died in 2025, but her generosity and service continue to open doors for talented students in Scotland.