Dr. Louise McBee was one of UGA’s most esteemed officials in a period of significant growth and change. She came to UGA in 1963 as dean of women and worked under four university presidents before retiring in 1988 as acting vice president for academic affairs, the second-highest position at UGA at the time. She also held appointments as associate professor of psychology and associate professor of higher education.

McBee served in the highest positions at UGA in both student affairs and academic affairs—a rarity in university administration—and was a favorite of students and faculty for her accessibility and fair approach to challenging situations. The University System Board of Regents later named McBee vice president emeritus for academic affairs, and UGA recognized her extraordinary legacy in 2018 by unveiling her portrait in the UGA Administration Building.

McBee was a role model and mentor for women working at the University and worked throughout her career to expand opportunities for women in higher education. in 1976, she convened the committee that would establish the Women's Studies Program at UGA. She also chaired the committee that led to UGA implementing Title IX, which provided additional support for female athletes.