"What new piece of the universe did your students touch today?" A Memorial Film for Dr. Linda McSpadden McNeil

The beloved and consummate educator, Rice University professor of teacher education, the late Dr. Linda McNeil asks at her September 24, 2012 presentation at the "Measuring Up" Forum that took place at the LBJ School of Public Affairs, "What new piece of the universe did your students touch today?" 

To memorialize her passing in 2021, the family and I welcome you to a "Remembrance Celebration" taking place this Friday on her behalf as part of the AERA conference beginning this week in San Diego, California. It takes place on April 22, from 6:30 to 8:00pm PDT (8:30 to 10:00pm CDT) at the San Diego Convention Center.

In line with the conference theme, “Cultivating Equitable Education Systems for the 21st Century,” it is an honor and privilege to reflect on Dr. McNeil’s impactful life and career, including her specific contributions to cultivating equitable education systems. To learn more about her, treat yourself today to her blog. Linda, you left us much too soon.

Personally, Dr. McNeil was a dear friend and colleague with whom I worked closely over the years, particularly in the struggle in Texas against high-stakes testing, one that continues today. She helped me in my early years as a struggling assistant professor to survive my stint at Rice University, bringing me into her nurturing and intellectually stimulating sphere and network when she served as director of the Rice University Center for Education. Our families were close throughout and remain so today. Much love to Kathryn, Carrie, and baby Luke and all the family that mourns her loss. If you're in the neighborhood, consider joining us so that you can learn about Dr. McNeil's many contributions to making our schools and world a much better place.

Here is her obituary from the New York Times and below is a beautiful short video made by a former student and friend, Sonia Noyola, who, along with her students, created this special tribute. Linda, words cannot capture the depth of my love, respect, and admiration. Thank you for living the life you lived and for bringing me and so many others on for the ride. Your spirit lives on!

-Angela Valenzuela