Dulcie Lynne Peccolo passed away on September 7, 2021, surrounded by her family. Dulcie dedicated her life’s work to advocating for the students she served throughout her career in education. In 2018, she was inducted into the Educators Hall of Honor in the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences (CEHHS) in recognition of her love and dedication to the students. Dulcie was loved and respected by them and was actively involved in their educational journey.
Dulcie joined the university family in 1985 and retired in 2015 after dedicating 30 years to students. During her time at the UT Graduate School, Dulcie served as the assistant director, touching the lives of many graduate students in her role. Having received her doctorate degree in Family Resource Management Studies, she understood the challenges they faced.
“Dulcie brought joy and purpose to her work every day,” shares Dixie Thompson, Vice Provost and Dean of the Graduate School. “She was a tireless advocate for students, a caring colleague, a trusted mentor, and a loyal friend. She left a positive and lasting impact on all who knew her.”
Dulcie joined the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences as a professional assistant to our former dean, Bob Rider, where she helped advance both the college and its students. She then became the director of the Office of Advising and Student Services in 2008, where she was actively involved in the guidance, advising and ensuring the graduation of our students. One of her greatest joys was to see a student walk across the stage at graduation and know that she was able to help them make that happen. A lifelong educator, Dulcie truly cared and loved her students, staff, and colleagues and was always the first to lend a helping hand. She was known for her kindness and compassion for the students and was loved by many.
“Dulcie always put the students first, utilizing innovative ideas and ways to support both their academic and non academic needs,” said David Cihak, Associate Dean of Professional Licensure in CEHHS. “She was the mother of our Vol family.”
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. You may view the obituary and share your memories and condolences with the family. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you donate to the scholarship fund established in her memory.