UC Santa Barbara’s Gevirtz School laments the passing of emeritus professor Priscilla Drum on March 23. Drum joined the Department of Education faculty in 1976 after receiving her doctoral degree from Stanford University. Her work at UCSB centered on reading, learning from text, and vocabulary knowledge. She was a beloved teacher and mentor.
Drum’s dedication to the GGSE was exemplified by her generous service. For example, she was Assistant Dean (Student Affairs and Community Relations) and Chair of the Department of Education from 1989 to 1994, at the time of her retirement.
Drum had neuroendocrine cancer in the brain. Once diagnosed with this rare form of cancer, she made the decision to donate her body to science (at the University of Hawaii), contributing to the possible cure for others.
She leaves behind many friends who will remember her as gregarious, kind, honest, strong, and thoughtful. The Gevirtz School community will remember her love of life and her devotion to friends, colleagues, and students.