The University of Hartford community is mourning the loss of Linda Moran, a longtime faculty member in the Hillyer College of Arts and Sciences whose passion for learning, commitment to students, and warmth touched countless members of the University community. Linda passed away peacefully on August 11.
Linda joined the University in 2008 and became a valued and vibrant member of the Hillyer community. As a faculty member and longtime chair of Academic Strategies, she helped students develop the skills, confidence, and strategies they needed to succeed at UHart and beyond. She also managed the Hillyer Study Center for many years, becoming a mentor and trusted friend to generations of students.
Linda's commitment to student success was evident in everything she did. She was known for going above and beyond for her students, encouraging them to recognize their own potential and equipping them with the tools to become successful learners and future leaders. Her dedication was recognized in 2019 when she received the University's Innovation in Teaching Award.
“Linda always believed the best in people” recalls Marge Jackson, clinical applied professor of education at ENHP and previously longtime assistant professor of academic strategies in Hillyer College. “Our offices were next door to one another and I often heard her building up the confidence of her students when advising or helping with assignments. Linda was naturally kind. She was always sending thank you notes, and I care about you notes. A morning didn’t go by without her Dunkin Iced Tea! I will miss her every day.”
Linda’s passion for learning was a defining characteristic throughout her life. Before joining UHart, she enjoyed a successful career with Zenger Miller and Achieve Global, holding leadership and client-service positions including change management leader, vice president for client services, custom project manager, and senior product designer. She brought that extensive professional experience into the classroom.
Those who knew Linda will remember not only her intelligence and dedication, but also her wonderful sense of humor, generosity, and unwavering friendship. Her colleagues remember a devoted educator and advocate for students.
“Aside from everything else—her remarkable intellectual and teaching range, her selflessness and flexibility, her professionalism—Linda was a lovely person to talk to and be around. She was a wonderful colleague, and she will be missed,” says Jonathan Daigle, associate professor of English and assistant dean in the Hillyer College of Arts and Sciences.
Services
Calling hours will be held Friday, August 21, from 5–7 p.m. at Vincent Funeral Home, 880 Hopmeadow Street, Simsbury, Conn. A funeral service will be held Saturday, August 22, at 1 p.m. at St. Catherine of Siena, 265 Stratton Brook Road in West Simsbury.
Memorial contributions may be made in Linda’s honor to either of the following:
- Linda Moran Buda Reflection Garden at St. Catherine of Siena
267 Stratton Brook Road
West Simsbury, CT 06092 - Our Lady of Lourdes Regional School Memorial Fund
2001 Clinton Ave.
Coal Township, PA 17866