In Memoriam: Donna Salmon ’79

The Fisher alumni family lost a trailblazer and advocate in 2020. Donna Salmon ’79 passed away on December 8.

Donna’s ties with the Fisher family run deep. Her twin sister, Debra, is also an alumna from the Class of 1979. Together they were part of the first decade of Fisher coeducation, and among the first Fisher female student-athletes as members of the women’s volleyball team.

After graduation, Donna returned to Fisher in 1986 to serve as the director of alumni relations, the first woman to hold the position. For nearly a decade she connected with fellow alumni and engaged students on campus through spearheading various events, as well as leading fundraising efforts on behalf of the College.

Upon leaving Fisher in 1994, she maintained a strong connection as a volunteer and advocate while continuing her career with St. Lawrence University, Elmira College, and the University of Rochester. In 2017 she was honored with the Quarter Century Award by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education.

Over the past three decades, Donna remained a familiar and friendly face at Fisher celebrations and events, and was a dedicated supporter of the College. Wherever she traveled, she would always make time to visit Fisher friends nearby, happy to connect and always looking for ways to help.

To honor Donna’s legacy of service and love of Fisher, Debra, along with friends and family, have established the Donna Salmon Memorial Scholarship. Visit alumni.sjfc.edu/give to make a gift in honor of Donna.