Southwestern College English professor Cynthia McDaniel, 57, died in San Diego on March 26.
She was born and raised in San Diego and graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Arts in English. McDaniel became a full-time SWC employee in 2006. She taught a variety of English courses and courses that prepared future educators.
Her colleagues remember her as a warm and humorous woman who was passionate about her work.
Learning Assistance Services Coordinator Andrew Rempt said he remembers McDaniel as someone who would give little presents to her peers.
“She was always very thoughtful,” Rempt said.
Former student César Cabrera said McDaniel was a dedicated instructor who understood and helped students when they had struggles.
“She was a really great professor and an even better human being,” Cabrera said.
Her willingness to help students encouraged them to pursue a higher education. Her patience made them trust her. Her smile inspired them to keep smiling.
English professor Elisa Hedrick said her colleague was extremely giving with her time and as an instructor went above standard protocol for her students.
“She had a real generosity spirit when it came to interacting with students,” Hedrick said.
McDaniel was a senator in the Academic Senate for English, a visual audio monologue performance coach and focused on helping survivors of abuse and internment camps.
She was also involved in the creation of the education program for SWC students who wanted to transfer to a four-year-institution and obtain a teaching certificate.
She is survived by her husband Jerry, her daughter Megan and brother Mike Blair.
There will be a reminiscence ceremony and a celebration of her life Saturday, May 25 at 1 p.m.
