Approximately 30 former colleagues, family and friends gathered on the third floor of Worcester State University’s Wasylean Hall for the dedication of the Edna P. Spencer Student Lounge on Thursday, May 9.
President Barry Maloney formally named the lounge in Spencer’s honor in recognition of all that she has done for the University.
“Clearly, Edna, you made an indelible mark on all with whom you interacted. We are forever grateful,” he said.
In 2006, following the death of their daughter, Olivia, Edna, who served as WSU’s director of diversity and affirmative action officer for 16 years, and her husband, Cornelius, established a student scholarship in her name with the help of family and friends.
“You chose to memorialize Olivia’s legacy of joy, love and sharing with Worcester State University students,” noted Vice President of University Advancement Thomas M. McNamara ’94.
The Spencers’ generosity in support of students has led to the creation of a second named student lounge in Wayslean Hall.
“How appropriate and fitting that this space will be used by our students as a gathering place to study, socialize, read or simply reflect,” McNamara said.