Kathryn,

I knew your mom Penny through CSU Bakersfield. I met her when I came to CSUB to work with them on accreditation in 2007-8. I spent much time working with and learning from her. We worked well together and shared a love of teaching. What was remarkable is at that time I was still recovering from brain surgery, and was somewhat unsure of my physical abilities, yet Penny showed such confidence in me. A craniotomy is a challenging experience, even when the tumor is benign, as mine was. She knew that and demonstrated trust. Never did we imagine this was in her future also. We were in touch over the years, meeting at conferences and exchanging ideas via Facebook. More recently, I shared my experiences immediately post-surgery with her and tried to give support, however I might.

I am so saddened by her passing. I need not dwell on what a fine person she was - you know this and are a testament to that, as are all her children.

I will think of her fondly always.


Margaret Olebe