Debra Yarrington, associate professor of computer and information sciences: “Sandee was an amazing person.  She was definitely a role model to me and so many of us. I was deeply inspired by her stories of standing up for herself, both in the corporate world and in academia, and I found her confidence astounding and inspiring. Her conviction in doing what was right and fair made me reflect on my role as a teacher and how I was influencing my students.  I will always aspire to be more like her, both as a teacher, and as a person. She's been such a presence in our department, I still feel like she should be here.”

Dave Saunders. professor emeritus of computer and information sciences: “Sandee was a magnificent colleague these many decades. She was a strong and effective department leader, both as chair and otherwise. She held firm and well based positions on many matters. For the acute space issue she sacrificed her chairmanship. It worked, leading to us finally getting some administrative action. Thank you for all you did for us, Sandee.”

Adarsh Sethi, retired professor of computer and information sciences: “Sandee was an amazing person who contributed to the department in so many ways, both as faculty and as department chair. She had very high standards that she never compromised. She was a mentor to so many of us, and she touched our lives deeply, not only those of us who were her colleagues but also countless students whom she inspired to become computer scientists. She will be greatly missed!”

Leila Barmaki, associate professor of computer and information sciences: "Though my interaction with Sandee was relatively short, in comparison to my other colleagues, I never forgot her support when I first joined the department. She helped me go through my worries and take actions towards changing my position to tenure track the first semester after being here. She was the one who gave me the confidence to apply. She kindly followed my progress throughout the tenure and sent me encouraging emails whenever my team got some recognitions. She was a true leader in all aspects.”

Cory Bart, associate professor of computer and information sciences: “Sandee was an amazing teacher. I was lucky enough to have her twice (CISC260 and CISC303). She taught both courses so masterfully. Automata in particular was a transformative experience, in so many ways. I remember I went to her office hours prepared to argue about an exam grade, where I thought I deserved more points. She patiently went over the Diagonalization proof with me step-by-step, until everything clicked. I walked out of her office convinced that she should have taken off more points than she did! It was so humbling. I think she may have been one of the best lecturers I had in undergrad. She not only knew the material perfectly, but she knew how to explain the most complicated topics such that they made perfect sense. I will always remember her very fondly. I hope she finds peace and the rest she deserves.”

About Sandra Carberry