Honoring Dr. Lee Hood: Memorial Service and Remembrance
Dear School of Communication (SOC) community,
It is with deep sadness that I write to inform you of the sudden passing of our beloved faculty member, Dr. Lee Hood. Dr. Hood passed away on October 8, 2024, and her loss has deeply impacted our community.
Dr. Hood taught journalism in the School of Communication for more than 15 years, following a successful career in broadcast journalism. Her dedication to student success was evident in all she did, both inside and outside the classroom. Dr. Hood tirelessly mentored students, helped them find internships and career opportunities, and connected them with her vast professional network. She was more than just a professor; she was an advocate for students, inspiring them to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.
Dr. Hood's legacy as a mentor and educator was recognized in 2018 when she received the prestigious Edward L. Bliss Award for Distinguished Broadcast Journalism Education. She also served as the head of the Broadcast and Media Journalism division of the Broadcast Education Association (BEA) and held leadership roles in the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences (NATAS). Her leadership and contributions left an indelible mark on the journalism community and the lives of her students.
In this difficult time, we encourage you to come together as a community to honor Dr. Hood’s memory. The School of Communication will host a memorial gathering to celebrate her legacy. If you would like to attend, please email me at vmcdermott1@luc.edu. Additionally, a memorial service will be held at St. Matthew United Church of Christ in Wheaton, IL, on Monday, October 14, with visitation beginning at 2 p.m. and the service following at 3 p.m.
In lieu of sending flowers directly to Dr. Hood’s family, you may order flowers through Philips Flowers in Wheaton by calling 630-510-0401, specifying St. Matthew UCC as the delivery location. Dr. Hood’s favorite flowers included peonies, roses, lilacs, irises, and carnations, with pink being her favorite color.
We invite you to share your memories of Dr. Hood with us. Please send any stories or photos you may have to vmcdermott1@luc.edu, and we will compile them for her family.
We understand that this news is difficult to process, and we want you to know that support is available. The Wellness Center offers counseling services, and you may reach out to Guy Caprio, Father Jerry Overbeck, or Pastor Emily Heitzman for additional support.
Let us take a moment to reflect on Dr. Hood’s life and the positive influence she had on our community. We will forever cherish her legacy of dedication, compassion, and excellence.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Hood’s family, friends, colleagues, and students during this difficult time. May her memory continue to inspire us.
With deepest sympathy,
Virginia McDermott, PhD
Dean, School of Communication