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In January of this year, GCC lost an alumna, instructor, mentor, and most of all, dear friend, Sally Black. Sally began her relationship with the college as a student, completing the LVN program in 1977. She continued her education at GCC, completing her RN in1981. She joined the college’s Nursing Department as an adjunct faculty member; then, after earning her Master’s degree from UCLA, became fulltime faculty and finally an associate professor. Sally was still teaching last year until her battle with cancer prevented her from working. It is difficult to sum up in a few words how we feel about someone who accomplished so much in her too-short life and meant so much to so many. Sally was a mentor to many students, several of whom later went on to become GCC faculty. Several graduates have specifically mentioned that she helped them through the program when they faced challenges. Sally would provide help and encouragement to these students and would enlist the help of stronger students to tutor them. Friends and colleagues recall how even once ill, she always had the time to listen and help with teaching or work issues. Her advice was insightful, thoughtful and cherished! Sally also had a 20+year history with Glendale Memorial Hospital, first as an employee in their ICU and then as the clinical instructor for the GCC students. She knew virtually everyone in the hospital by name—from the housekeepers to the unit clerks to the doctors and the nurses. She was much loved, and it was always a delight to see her arrive with her students. With an enthusiastic attitude and a smile described as “contagious” she was a pleasant addition to the hospital. Sally would often check on patients even when they were no longer assigned to her students. Sally was active in parish nursing and arranged for thousands of flu shots to be given to the public over the years. She also enjoyed traveling, reading, long nature walks, hanging out with her four black cats, and eating at the local Mexican restaurant with friends, where she and her husband had their own designated table and waiter. She was a person with many friends and fans! Sally is sorely missed by so many. She is survived by her great love and husband Patrick, son Eric, daughter-in-law K.T., and grandson Brendan. Sally cared for Brendan on a regular basis and was always eager to share his new photos and accomplishments, such as his ever-expanding vocabulary and gift of gab—definitely inherited from “Grammy”! The Nursing Resource Lab, HS 343, will be dedicated in Sally’s name. It’s a small tribute to a tremendous woman who served GCC so well in so many capacities! We love you, Sally! & |
