by Zach Miller
Quick Summary
In her 17 years of service, Deborah Torres made an indelible impact on the St. Kate's MLIS program. In many ways, she was the face and heart of the program, and was instrumental to it achieving independence and ALA accreditation in 2010.
Text courtesy of the St. Kate's MLIS Program.
With deep sorrow and condolences to Deb's family, friends, and colleagues, we share the news that Deb passed away on April 2, 2022 in St. Paul after a brief, intense illness. During her 17 years with us, Deb made an indelible impact on the MLIS Program, students, alums, the university, and the professional community. Deb came on board in 2003 as Assistant Professor specializing in archives and later took on new responsibilities as Assistant Program Director before retiring in 2020.
Deb was instrumental in helping build the master's program from its beginnings as a collaboration with Dominican University to its independence as an ALA-accredited program in 2010.
Deb was the face and heart of the program in so many ways. Deb was a great connector of people, advising and supporting students from the time they walked in the door to graduation. Deb's network of colleagues, alums, and friends extended across St. Kate's to local and national professional organizations. Deb was especially active in the Society of American Archivists.
We have created a Deb Torres memorial website for all who wish to share their memories and unite in honoring Deb. We invite all to add their remembrances to celebrate Deb's life. The MLIS Program will also create a plaque to honor Deb that will be displayed prominently in our office. Other local activities will be announced on the memorial website. We will miss Deb greatly.
