Oct. 3, 2007--Oct. 3, 2007--The following memorial tribute to Dorothy A. Kennedy was presented by Jayne Fernsler, professor emeritus of nursing, at the Semiannual General Faculty Meeting on Oct. 1, 2007:

Dorothy Kennedy died Aug. 10, 2007. She faithfully served the University of Delaware from 1967 until 1988. During her tenure on the faculty, she held several positions, which included coordinator of maternal child nursing, associate professor of pediatric nursing, chair of the Department of Advanced Nursing Science and acting assistant dean of the College of Nursing.

Dot, as she was addressed by friends and colleagues, was a mentor to both faculty and students and was a thesis advisor to many graduate students. In addition, she chaired many committees and task forces throughout the years, accepting and executing these assignments with quiet dignity and meticulous attention to detail. She did not seek attention and recognition for herself but rather for the College and the University. For example, she never mentioned that the book, The Theory and Practice of Nursing Service Administration, co-authored with a colleague, was widely used and quoted in nursing venues throughout the country. Likewise, she spoke little about her contributions to professional organizations such as the Sigma Theta Tau, the Delaware Nurses Association, the Delaware Board of Nursing and organizations within her nursing specialty.

On a personal level, beneath Dot's stoic and sometimes inscrutable demeanor lay a warm and deeply caring person who was exceedingly thoughtful and supportive of those with whom she lived and worked. She was never too busy to listen to the concerns of others or to plan both small and large celebrations for faculty and staff birthdays, retirements and other life events. After her retirement, she remained in contact with all former students and many colleagues through an annual Christmas letter.

Dot's caring and concern extended to the world of nature and to other living creatures. She enjoyed bird watching and the companionship of pets, the most recent being her beloved cat Whitney.

I am fortunate to have worked with Dot for nearly 10 years and to have been the recipient of her kindness and encouragement. I am honored to have the privilege of presenting this tribute to a friend and colleague who was a consummate professional and a loyal and conscientious faculty member of the University of Delaware.