Dr. Monica Pombo, faculty member in the Department of Communication, passed away on Wednesday, May 30, after a battle with cancer. She leaves behind a son, Alex, partner, Heather Thorp, and long list of family, friends, colleagues, and students.

  Dr. Monica Pombo in 2008, recieving the Southern States Communication Assocation's Outstanding Young Educator Award

Dr. Janice Pope, Chair of the Department of Communication, said, “The Department of Communication lost a cherished faculty member when Monica passed on, but we will not forget her. Monica’s spirit of warm intelligence and deep authenticity will be carried forward by her students and those of us who were privileged to know her and work with her. We will miss her presence and celebrate her life, both.”

Dr. Pombo began teaching at ASU in 2003 as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication with a focus on Mass Communication. She was also a member of the graduate faculty. Originally from Brazil, Dr. Pombo received her bachelor’s degree from Cleveland State University and her master’s degree and Ph.D. from Ohio University. In 2009, Dr. Pombo received tenure and began her term as Assistant Chair of her department, a position she held until 2011. In addition to teaching and service in the University, she was a past president of the Carolinas Communication Association.

“Monica was a truly gifted teacher,” recalls Dr. Glenda Treadaway, Dean of the College of Fine and Applied Arts. “She was a sought after professor by students and a friend and colleague to all her knew her. Monica has been a true inspiration and shining light. She will be greatly missed by all of us in the College.”