The AU community remembered Lucinda Peach, an associate professor in the School of International Service and College of Arts and Sciences, during a Buddhist-inspired memorial service in Kay Spiritual Center Wednesday.
Peach, 52, died July 25 due to complications from breast cancer treatments, The Eagle previously reported.
Throughout the service, anecdotes and letters read by coworkers, friends and former students reflected the professor's warmth and wisdom.
"Her kindness was always radiating outward to the campus and beyond," said University Chaplain Joe Eldridge as he started out the ceremony. "She was a person of accomplishments, integrity, compassion, commitment and curiosity."
Peach, who was an associate professor of philosophy and religion, touched the lives of students and colleagues alike.
"She never let you settle with mediocrity," said Chris Marsh, one of Peach's former students, who completed his undergraduate degree in 2007 and is currently a master's student. "She pushed you to do your best and always made you give justification for what you were thinking."
Peach's Buddhist beliefs were reflected throughout the service. The memorial began with meditation and chanting led by Buddhist chaplain Bhante Katugastota Uparatana and ended with a moment of silence led by Buddhist practitioner Michael Roehm.
Peach had been studying Buddhism since the 1970s, according to the memorial program, and she began "consistent meditation practice" in 1995.
-ANNA TUMAN
