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MCC Daily Tribune Archive

Passing of Julianne Palma


  I am sad to share the news that Professor Julianne Palma, who worked as an adjunct in the English/Philosophy and Transitional Studies departments, passed away on Saturday, January 7 after a brief and courageous battle with cancer.

For forty years Julianne was a devoted, dedicated and gifted teacher. She affirmed and encouraged each of her student's gifts. During her career, she taught at Good Shepherd School, 21 years at Our Lady of Mercy High School, 15 years at Monroe Community College, Nazareth College, and in the Diaconate Formation Program of the Diocese of Rochester at St. Bernard's School of Theology and Ministry. She was also a contributing writer for the Catholic Courier for over 25 years.

Juli was a Philadelphia native and graduate of Webster’s Holy Trinity School and Rochester's Our Lady of Mercy High School. She obtained her bachelor's degree in theater arts in 1976 from Nazareth College, a master's in education in 1979 from Nazareth College and a master's in theology in 1990 from St. Bernard’s Institute (now St. Bernard's School of Theology and Ministry).

Many people have commented that her "smile energized a room" and that her "passionate love of learning and reading were contagious." Her family and friends will miss this creative, energetic, and gentle spirit.

Memorial donations can be made to Our Lady of Mercy School for Young Women, Advancement Office, 1437 Blossom Road, Rochester, NY 14610; African Family Services Foundation In New York, Inc., 160 Merriman St., Rochester, NY 14607; St. Mary Church, 15 St. Mary's Place, Rochester, NY 14607; or the charity of one's choice.

Anne M. Kress
Office of the President
01/24/2017