The UGA Graduate School honors the many contributions of Dr. Sylvia Hutchinson, who passed away in August 2026.
A true “Triple Dawg,” Dr. Hutchinson earned three degrees from the UGA College of Education: her B.S.Ed. in Elementary Education in 1961, her M.Ed. in Elementary Education in 1962, and her Ph.D. in Reading Education in 1976. She retired from the university in 2002, after 21 years of service. However, her passion for teaching never wavered, and she remained committed to the University of Georgia. As Professor Emerita in the Department of Language and Literacy Education, she continued to teach each semester until May 2026.
Dr. Hutchinson joined the Graduate Education Advancement Board in 2009. Recognized as one of the board’s most active and dedicated members, she was particularly invested in ensuring each student received effective and caring mentoring and in supporting new parents. Dr. Hutchinson launched numerous philanthropic efforts at the University to support those causes that were important to her.
Dr. Hutchinson endowed the McCoy-Hutchinson Mentoring Academy to promote excellence in the mentorship of graduate students. UGA faculty who have completed the Graduate Mentoring Certificate are invited to join the McCoy-Hutchinson Mentoring Academy, which provides an opportunity for sustained engagement on the topic of excellence in graduate mentoring.
This year, because she knew first-hand how challenging it can be to become a parent during graduate school, Dr. Hutchinson created the Sylvia Hutchinson Graduate Student Parental Support Fellowship. When it launches later this fall, the fellowship will help caregivers balance their family responsibilities and graduate training.
In lieu of flowers, Dr. Hutchinson’s family requests that those who wish to honor her memory consider making a tribute gift to the UGA Foundation, as noted in her obituary. Among her philanthropic efforts, the Mentoring Academy and the Parental Support Fund are open for contributions for those who choose to honor Dr. Hutchinson in this manner.
- The McCoy-Hutchinson Mentoring Academy Fund: This fund continues to support university-wide efforts to promote and sustain excellence in graduate mentoring.
- The Sylvia Hutchinson Graduate Student Parental Support Fellowship Fund: This fund provides financial support for graduate students navigating the birth or adoption of a child, or facing absences related to childcare responsibilities.
