It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that we share the news that Dr. Susan G. Gerberich, former Director of MCOHS and Professor Emerita in the Division of Environmental Health Sciences, passed away this week. It is an understatement to say that we are saddened and shocked by this news, and already feeling the enormity of the loss. She was a dear colleague to all of us and many people across the country and world.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, June 29th at 10 AM, with visitation one hour prior, at the Lakewood Memorial Chapel, 3600 Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55408. Additional details regarding the service, reception, and memorial contributions are provided in the obituary.
A pioneer in the field of injury and violence prevention.
Dr. Gerberich joined the University of Minnesota’s Division of Environmental Health Sciences as faculty in 1980. In 2007, she took on the role of Director of the Midwest Center for Occupational Health and Safety, which she led with grace, tenacity, and wisdom until her retirement in 2019. She developed the original MCOHS injury control training program in 1987. That program is still going strong today, due in no small part to her exceptional leadership.
Sue, as we all knew her, was a trusted and respected mentor to dozens of graduate students, guiding them to become future leaders in injury prevention and control. She reflected on that role upon her retirement in 2019:
“Of utmost importance, are the students whom I have taught and mentored and who continue to make a difference, locally, nationally, and globally!”Susan Goodwin Gerberich, PhD
Please join us in paying tribute to Sue, a great pioneer, mentor, colleague, and friend.
We know Sue touched many lives and made a lasting impact with students, faculty, friends, and colleagues around the globe. We have created an online form where we invite you to share your memories of Dr. Gerberich. We will compile the responses into a lasting tribute on our website. Her legacy will continue to inspire future leaders in occupational health and safety.
SUBMIT YOUR MEMORIAL TRIBUTE AT:
z.umn.edu/sue-gerberich
Injuries are not accidents.
Thank you, Dr. Gerberich, for your passion for education, and tireless dedication to the promotion of the field of occupational health and safety. We are grateful and honored to have called you our colleague, mentor, and friend.
Read Dr. Gerberich’s obituary
