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Written by Deborah Tudor Wednesday, 30 September 2009 15:25

News - Faculty News and Awards

Department of Cinema and Photography Loses Tommie Rayford, a Colleague for 25 years

Tommie Lee Rayford, who devoted 25 years to the University, died Wednesday September 23, 2009 in Memorial Hospital of Carbondale, with her family at her side. She graduated from Carbondale Community High School, and received a master's degree in workforce education from SIUC.

Ms. Rayford worked as an administrative aide to the Chair of the Department of Cinema and Photography. She was noted for her work helping the students as well, serving as a student mentor and a teacher in the University 101 Course. Her work for the Department went far beyond her fiscal responsibilities; she helped write grants for the Department's Big Muddy Film Festival events, dealt with travel arrangements for Visiting Artists, and worked with the advisors and members of departmental RSOs Photogenesis and Film Alternatives.

Tommie's unstinting generosity, her intelligence, and good humor made her a magnet for departmental members. Faculty, staff, and students could often be found in her office asking advice on projects or simply sharing time with her. We will miss our colleague greatly.