Pamela E. Graglia

Pamela E. Graglia, 57, of Fort Collins, passed away on December 12, 2024, at home. Pamela was born on October 8, 1967, in Kankakee, Illinois, to Raymond and Benita (True) Graglia. Pamela was a lifelong learner who believed deeply in the power of education. She was a 1986 graduate of West Bend East High School. Continuing her education she graduated from UW-La Crosse University with a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications, from Western Illinois University with a Master of Science in College Student Development, and finally from the University of Northern Colorado with a Doctorate of Philosophy in Higher Education and Student Affairs Leadership with a Doctoral Minor in Applied Statistics & Research Methods. She worked with hundreds of students, staff, and faculty at several higher education institutions including UW-La Crosse, UW-Whitewater, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, University of Northern Colorado, University of Denver, and most recently at Colorado State University. She served as a faculty member and advisor in the Student Affairs in Higher Education program, teaching courses that inspired and empowered her students. Pamela was deeply invested in her students, maintaining friendships and mentorships long after their graduations. She also worked with national non-profit organizations including LeaderShape and the Social Justice Training Institute, where she worked tirelessly behind the scenes as an organizer and graphic designer. Pamela’s creativity and artistic vision were central to who she was. She saw the world in pictures and expressed her unique perspective through her art. She loved visiting art museums with friends and taking in inspiration from others. Most recently, she became a gifted potter, creating beautiful works and sharing them generously with friends and family. Pamela hosted two raku pottery classes at the Fort Collins Pottery Studio, joyfully teaching and sharing her passion. She also celebrated her Italian heritage by cooking traditional dishes, particularly pasta and anise-flavored biscotti, which were staples at gatherings and holidays. For a short stint, Pamela went into "business" with a friend on what they jokingly called the "international toy cartel"—a venture that involved purchasing rare and artistic toys to sell at conventions. While the toys themselves were extraordinary, Pamela’s role as a salesperson was, in a word, disastrous. She had a knack for making people smile but no instinct for closing a deal; her desire to give people exactly what they wanted often led her to literally give the toys away. Unsurprisingly, the business is functioning at a snail’s pace today, but Pamela never saw it as a failure. Many of the remaining toys now have a home on proud display in her house—vivid reminders of her playful spirit, artistic eye, and ability to turn even a quirky idea into a cherished adventure. Those who knew Pamela remember her as brilliant, creative, quirky, and deeply loyal. She was irreverent in the best way—hilarious and unafraid to speak her mind. Her inner circle of friends was blessed by her incredible thoughtfulness, her humor, and her ability to listen deeply. Pamela had a knack for giving the perfect gift, always infused with care and meaning. She doted endlessly on her beloved dogs, Jasper and Parker, often sharing photos of their antics to brighten the days of those she loved. Pamela cherished her family deeply, maintaining a special bond with her mother, Benita, and her younger brother, Greg. Together, she and Greg had been collaborating on a children’s book about science topics, with Greg writing and Pamela illustrating. Her family, friends, and colleagues will always remember her as someone who lived by her values, stood firm in her beliefs, and faced the world with authenticity and love. Pamela is survived by her mother, Benita; her brothers, Erik and Greg (Deanna) Graglia; her niece, Abigail Graglia; her nephews, Noah and Jonah Graglia; and her faithful companions, Parker and Jasper. She is also survived by countless friends, extended family, and professional colleagues who adored her. She was preceded in death by her father, Raymond Graglia, and her dear aunt, Dolores Pacetti. A memorial service will be held on Friday, January 3, 2025, starting at 3pm with remarks to begin at 4pm at the Durrell Center on the Colorado State University campus with a virtual link for remote attendance. Please see the link for more information: https://www.paperlesspost.com/go/jkDy3nlS7XyVbbUzJXb1r. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Pamela’s name can be made to the Social Justice Training Institute http://sjti.org/donate , an organization that reflects her lifelong dedication to equity and inclusion. Pamela lived boldly, loved fiercely, and left an indelible mark on the world. She reminds us to cherish every moment, because, as she often said with an excited "Oh, oh, oh!", life is full of beauty and possibility.