Our Condolences to the Spielberg Family

We were saddened to hear the news that Elaine Spielberg passed away on June 19. To quote her husband Peter, "Our Elaine went gentle into that deep night, and her love shall not be lost."

Professor Spielberg taught as an adjunct professor in the Writing Program for many, many years following a long career as a NYC public high school English teacher. Most recently, it was her recommendation of the LIU Brooklyn campus to NYCAAPSE coordinator Barbara Rothenberg that led to the "Our Mutual Estate" conference we co-sponsored this past spring.

Elaine "retired" from teaching at LIU at the end of the Spring 2010 semester, and we all missed her over the academic year just concluded. We will miss her even more now.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for contributions to UNICEF. Given that summer is upon us, the co-chairs and I suggest making individual contributions to UNICEF and noting your LIU connection. If you would like to make a contribution in Elaine's name, UNICEF Tribute Cards can be sent by calling 1-800-345-8799 or by e-mail at www.unicedf.org.

Peter has said he would welcome cards as well from Elaine's colleagues. They may be sent to Peter Spielberg, 321 West 24th St., Apt. 13F, NY, NY 10011.

UPDATE January 25, 2012: Mr. Spielberg sent us this nice thank-you note (dated February 6, 2011), which has been posted on the wall by the photocopy machine since we received it.