The academic community at the University of Oriente is mourning the unexpected loss of two of its esteemed professors, whose deaths have deeply affected colleagues, students, and family members alike.
Professor Osvaldo Oduardo Zamora, aged 51, passed away under unspecified circumstances. Holding a degree in Mathematics-Computer Science, he served as an Assistant Professor at the Municipal University Center (CUM) in Songo-La Maya. His untimely departure has left a significant void in both his professional and personal spheres, being described as unexpected by those who knew him.
Additionally, the university announced the passing of Professor Jorge Luis Nistal, aged 57, who was part of the Military Education Department. Before the university integration process, Nistal was associated with the University of Pedagogical Sciences and had dedicated more than three decades to academic instruction in military and educational fields.
The institution shared the news of their deaths through its official social media channels, extending condolences to their families, friends, and colleagues. The dual loss has resonated not only within the University of Oriente but also throughout the educational community of Santiago de Cuba, where both professors were well-regarded for their commitment to higher education.
This month also saw the passing of Mercedes Lina Cathcart, a Professor Emeritus and iconic figure at the University of Oriente. She was a graduate in Literature and built an extensive academic career. Cathcart held various roles, including Head of the Spanish Department, Director of the School of Literature, and Dean of both the Faculty of Philology and the Faculty of Arts and Letters. Her efforts were pivotal in strengthening the humanities' education in Cuba.
Mercedes Lina Cathcart received numerous accolades for her dedication to education and culture in Cuba, such as the Frank País Order of the second degree, the Rafael María de Mendive Distinction, the José Tey Medal, and the Distinction for National Culture. These honors are a testament to her lifelong commitment to nurturing generations of professionals in the fields of literature and humanities.
Impact of Professors' Deaths on Santiago de Cuba's Academic Community
Who were the professors that recently passed away at the University of Oriente?
The professors were Osvaldo Oduardo Zamora and Jorge Luis Nistal, both recognized for their contributions to the academic community.
What roles did Mercedes Lina Cathcart hold at the University of Oriente?
Mercedes Lina Cathcart served as Head of the Spanish Department, Director of the School of Literature, and Dean of the Faculties of Philology and Arts and Letters.
How did the University of Oriente announce the deaths?
The university announced the deaths through its official social media accounts, expressing condolences to the families and colleagues.