The campus learned June 27 of the passing of Maureen Hood, retired English professor. When known, funeral arrangements will be published in the Campus Chronicle.
Maureen P. Hood
One looks back with appreciation to the brilliant teachers, but with gratitude to those who touched our human feelings.
~ Carl Jung
It is with great sadness that we pause to reflect on Maureen P. Hood — colleague, teacher, mentor and friend. From 1967 through 2016, she served on the English faculty at HVCC, creating a legacy that has affected individuals and our community in ways too numerous and significant to be described adequately.
Those of us who had the good fortune to know Maureen at Hudson Valley can surely recall walking through the halls hearing her teaching Shakespeare, delighting students with her portrayals of characters in short stories, encouraging students in Public Speaking or just being the charismatic, enthusiastic, compassionate teacher we came to admire. Certainly, the thousands of students she taught over the years have been well served by the truly great Professor Maureen Hood.
Maureen’s influence, however, was not limited to students. She worked tirelessly for her department, for the faculty and for the college community. No task was too small or, for that matter, too large for Maureen to give entirely of herself to accomplish to the best of her ability. It was not unusual to see her in the halls or in the Campus Center rallying others to benefit students or the college.
Some may think the foundation of an institution is simply the ground on which it stands. Those who maintain such a position have surely not witnessed life at Hudson Valley Community College. Its foundation is based on professors like Maureen Hood who inspire students, motivate colleagues, and model for all a spirit of excellence and dedication that will continue forever. It is no accident that Maureen Hood was a Chancellor’s Award recipient. She represents the highest standard in teaching excellence. We are all better for her example.
Those of us fortunate enough to call Maureen friend suffer a great loss. Having known Maureen throughout my entire career at the college and over the years since retirement, I, like many, can say I am better because she was my friend.
Surely, Maureen is the subject of Carl Jung’s quote. She was, indeed, a brilliant teacher, but she stands out for how and how often she touched our human feelings.
Vivian A. Tortorici
Professor Emeritus and Retired Dean
Published: Wed, 28 Jun 2017 13:30:17 +0000 by v.tortorici