In Memoriam

We are saddened to learn of the passing of the following members of the HCC community: 

And these longtime friends and supporters:

Robert A. Gelinas

Sue Ellen Panitch

Victor Panitch

Sue Ellen Panitch, 1935-2023

Sue Ellen Panitch (Holyoke, Mass., January 6, 2023), former chair of the Holyoke Community College Board of Trustees and long-time member of the HCC Foundation Board of Directors, passed away recently at home. Panitch was a champion for Holyoke Community College and the HCC Foundation. Her deep and abiding belief in the Holyoke Community College mission and in each one of our students led to the creation of the Panitch Family Scholarship and Panitch Family Transfer Scholarship, both which continue to be awarded annually. In honor of her dedication to HCC, her family endowed the Sue Ellen Panitch Scholarship.

Panitch was an ardent community activist whose advocacy efforts on behalf of children, the environment, and the City of Holyoke led to her contribution to the success of numerous organizations and causes in addition to Holyoke Community College. These include the Holyoke Conservation Commission, Therapeutic Equestrian Center, Council of Human Understanding, and more. In 1996, the Greater Holyoke Council for Human Understanding presented her with its Human Relations Award. In 2002, the Holyoke Rotary Club presented her with its William G. Dwight Award for her “tireless work and invaluable commitment to the City of Holyoke.” In 2012, she was named one of the Unsung Heroines of Massachusetts by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women. In 2015, she was awarded the Pynchon Medal for Distinguished Service to the Community. Holyoke Rows celebrated her with the naming of the City of Holyoke Sue Ellen Panitch River Access Center and Boathouse, in recognition of her long advocacy for the Connecticut River.

She was predeceased by husband, Dr. Victor Panitch, who was also a supporter of the college.

Memorial donations can be made securely at hcc.edu/donate or mailed to to The Sue Ellen Panitch Scholarship at Holyoke Community College, HCC Foundation, 303 Homestead Ave., Donohue 170, Holyoke, MA 01040.