We are saddened to share that Elizabeth “Liz” DuRoss Liddy, beloved dean emerita, colleague, and friend, passed away on August 21 at the age of 81. Liz’s visionary leadership and pioneering scholarship shaped not only the iSchool, but the field of information studies worldwide.
As we remember her warmth, generosity, and enduring impact, we invite you to share your own memories and reflections below.
Remembrances
“Many remember Liz as both a professor and the Director of the Center for Natural Language Processing (CNLP), where her pioneering research laid the groundwork for today’s advancements in artificial intelligence. Under her leadership, CNLP moved into the third floor of Hinds Hall and grew to a team of 50 employees at its peak, generating millions of dollars in research funding for the iSchool. True to her collaborative spirit, Liz chose a desk in the middle of the open workspace, where she could easily engage with her team and foster innovation.”
– Bruce Kingma
Very sad to hear of Liz’s passing. I worked for Liz when she was Interim Provost and everything about her – dynamic, intelligent, energetic and above all else, kind to everyone she encountered. She had a smile on her face and was passionate about her role as dean and then as interim provost. Although the iSchool was the center of her work life, the true center of her life was her role as both mother and grandmother. She adored her children and thrived on the joys of her grandchildren. I have missed seeing her since her retirement; I know she had to be immensely happy living in North Carolina. Rest in peace, Liz and enjoy your angel wings.
– Beverly Everding