CECH: Remembering Dr. Nancy R. Hamant '57, '61, '67

As the UC community mourns the Thanksgiving Day passing of Dr. Nancy Hamant, we reflect on the legacy she leaves behind. Nancy joined the UC faculty in 1964 as an Associate Professor and Coordinator of Professional Experiences in the College of Education. Before retiring in 2007, Nancy spent 43 years preparing UC students for future teaching careers. As coordinator of professional practice, she placed thousands of students in teaching positions in schools in the region. “She seemed to know everyone in these schools,” said CECH Dean Larry Johnson. “Countless people I run into tell me about the influence she had on their development.”   

Nancy had a tremendous impact on CECH, the university, and the Cincinnati region. Many of the student support services still offered today were originally started by Nancy. She and her husband Tom also were long-time CECH benefactors, including establishing a scholarship which has helped numerous students complete their degrees.

Nancy received many accolades for her contributions, including being honored with the UC Alumni Distinguished Service Award in 1982, the UC Foundation Trustee Award in 1998, Faculty Member of the Year in 2001, University Service Award in 2006, and induction into the UC Athletics Hall of Fame in 2015 for her many years of service highlighted by her lengthy role as Faculty Representative to the NCAA. Finally, in 2010, she was awarded UC's highest alumni honor, the William Howard Taft Medal for Notable Achievement from the UC Alumni Association.

“While Nancy will be profoundly missed, her contributions and influence will live on in all of those lucky enough to have known her,” said Dean Johnson. “I’m fortunate to be one of those individuals and am a better person for having known her.” 

Do you have a memory of Nancy you would like to share? Please click here to submit. In addition, memorial donations may be made to the Nancy R. and Thomas H. Hamant Endowment Fund for CECH here.