Dr. Kathryn Kitzmiller, a Grand Canyon University science professor best known on campus as one of the Purple Profs, passed away Thursday after a short illness.
Kitzmiller taught at the university for 12 years. She was an adjunct instructor before transitioning into a full-time ground instructor. About two years ago, she accepted a role as GCU’s first full-time online chemist as part of the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing faculty.
She primarily taught chemistry but also taught biochemistry, laboratory safety, microbiology and University Success.
Outside of class, she served on GCU’s University Assessment Committee and as an officer for the Central Arizona local section of the American Chemical Society.
She was an avid hiker, as well.
But students knew her, not only as a dedicated teacher, but as one of the Purple Profs. She cheered on the Lopes alongside friends and fellow GCU professors Dr. Sandy Bledsoe and Gail Francis.
Through the years, the Purple Profs have become a beloved part of athletic games and were enthusiastically embraced by the Havocs.
“Whatever the themes are, we’re pretty much ready,” Kitzmiller told GCU Magazine in its November 2023 issue. “If we aren’t ready, we go to the nearest Party City and get ready.”
She said, even if the Purple Profs had a long day and they would say that they would leave at halftime, “that has never happened."
At those games and as a Purple Prof cheering alongside students, “You feel like a big part of the family,” she added.
Kitzmiller told GCU News in 2023, when she celebrated her 10th anniversary with GCU, “One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching is that moment when your belief in a student becomes reflected in their attitude and approach to the class. The removal of self-doubt and genuine desire to not only complete a course or assignment, but to excel, demonstrates the power of engagement and connection between GCU students and faculty.”
Said Rick Holbeck, executive director of the Department of Online Teaching and Learning, “Kathryn was a dedicated instructor who went above and beyond for her students. She will be greatly missed.”
