In Memory of Marsha Kruger

It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Marsha Kruger, a beloved and long-serving member of the UNO English Department, who left us on September 17 after a courageous battle with cancer. Marsha devoted forty years to our department, shaping programs, uplifting students, and offering steady support to her colleagues.

Marsha’s contributions were far-reaching. She taught writing, literature, and business writing with a dedication that left a lasting impression on generations of students. She played a key role in establishing the Writing Center and later served as its Associate Director, helping to build the strong writing culture that continues to benefit our campus today. Her service extended beyond the classroom; she engaged deeply with the Women’s and Gender Studies program committee and the Chancellor’s Commission on the Status of Women, always guided by a commitment to equity and care for those around her.

Colleagues remember Marsha not only for her professional achievements but for her warm presence in the everyday life of the department. Many recall encountering her in the hallways, always greeted by a cheerful, genuine smile that brightened their day. She brought a grounded, practical wisdom to meetings and conversations, offering clarity, humor, and a steady sense of what mattered most. Her grace, kindness, and generous spirit shaped countless interactions, from committee work to quick chats by the office printer.

Those who worked closely with her speak often of her devotion to students. She championed those who were eager to learn, offering guidance with patience and sincerity. Her mentorship influenced innumerable students and colleagues alike, and her legacy lives on through the programs she strengthened and the people she inspired.

Marsha made our department, and the world around her, better through her compassion, determination, and joyful spirit. She will be deeply missed, and we hold her family, friends, students, and all who loved her in our hearts during this time.

May her memory continue to guide and uplift us.