We lost a dear friend and force for good with the passing of long-time UA/NASA Steering Committee Member and associate dean of the UA’s Graduate College Maria Teresa Velez on April 13. Our sense of loss and commitment to carry on her impressive legacy is beautifully captured by the words of 2008 Space Grant Intern Jennifer Stanley:

Phenomenal woman she was, Dr. Maria Teresa Velez phenomenally extraordinary. She was a motherly-mentor to many minority scholars - to this day, continue to be leaders in their own communities, by way of her mentorship. The Mother Teresa of the academic world.

Many say “those are big shoes to fill” after someone advances to another. Yet in her case the numerous individuals she impacted and influenced have already begun to take on her qualities and have filled those high heels.

Ever so powerful in her role, she could move mountains and change the paths of rivers to travel in such a way. Those mountains represented obstacles for many minority scholars trying to find their river path for their first time in academia. Every time a scholar felt like going astray she would lead us back to an even greater river path. Unbeknownst to us, she was moving mountains and redirecting an alternative path for us to achieve success.

To imagine that she is gone is impossible! We all know that she continues to live in each of us. Little did we know we had all picked up on one of her glorious traits of character.
We inspire others just as she had inspired us.
We uplift others when they feel their light is dim.
We challenge each other to our limits only to find new heights awaiting us.
And the cycle repeats itself.

Very phenomenal indeed to come to a realization that we live the lives she wanted us to. We succeeded in so many avenues.

Because of her we are educators, doctors, engineers, scientists, researchers, mothers, fathers, mentors, role models to make a better tomorrow for the future!

The Mother Teresa of the academic world. A Legend!

Yes she will be missed but never forgotten!

Although our hearts are heavy, we find comfort knowing she lives on in each of us. Rest in Paradise Dr. Velez.