Alice W. Chandler was a widely treasured colleague whose University career of more than 75 years included serving as the office manager for the President and Provost’s Office until the age of 93. In recognition for her dedication, the annual staff service recognition event is now named the Alice W. Chandler Staff Service Recognition Ceremony.
Chandler, a native of Chicago, began working for the University at the age of 16, after she graduated from high school.
“Alice has been a vital part of the President’s office and this institution for generations,” said President Robert J. Zimmer. “Her quiet and unshakeable dedication to the University inspired all who worked with her, and is one of many gifts she has left to us.”
Alice’s tireless devotion to her work, and to her colleagues, prompted many to describe her as a consummate caretaker: someone who cared deeply about solving the problems of people, inside and outside the workplace.
Ingrid Gould, Associate Provost for Faculty and Student Affairs, described Alice as a “shining example of how to live well, how to build a community, how to care about people.”
The annual Staff Service Ceremony recognizes the high standard of loyalty and service that Alice represents for all staff at the University of Chicago.
