It is with great sadness that the Department of Geographical Sciences announces the passing of Dana Watkinson. Dana graduated with a BS in geographical sciences in 2016 and joined our MSGIS program last fall. A hard-working and enthusiastic student, Dana had a bright future in GIS ahead of her.

Dr. Amanda Hoffman-Hall, Director of Undergraduate Studies for the department, recalls Dana as “an absolute dream to teach.” Beyond her exemplary work in the department, Dana dedicated her time to raising her children, working at a marina, and volunteering at a domestic violence shelter. She was “really everything good that a student and person can be."

Dana was preceded in death by her partner of 16 years and leaves behind three children. To help support Dana’s children through high school and college, visit the GoFundMe page that has been set up in her honor.

Dana will be greatly missed by the GEOG community.