Jayne Spencer, a professor in the history and Latin American
studies departments, died of an unexpected illness Saturday. She
was 54.
Spencer’s career at UCLA started 15 years ago when she was
a graduate student in the history department. She later became a
professor in Latin American history and, more recently, a
coordinator in the Tarjan Center for Developmental Disabilities at
UCLA.
Friends and colleagues said Spencer was an inspiration to those
around her and will be remembered for her dedication to
education.
She worked hard to make UCLA a better place and had a cult
following among many students who understood her commitment, said
Kevin Terraciano, history professor and Spencer’s longtime
friend.
History Professor Jose Moya said Spencer has been an
“incredibly hardworking” person from the time he first
knew her as a graduate student. He added that her strength was
exemplified by the challenges she overcame.
Spencer was confined to a wheelchair due to an automobile
accident as a young woman.
However, this did not stop her from being a committed teacher,
Terraciano said.
Spencer also tried to make UCLA a more accessible university for
students with disabilities. She was chairwoman of the
Chancellor’s Advisory Committee on Disability.
Olivia Raynor, co-director of the Tarjan Center, said everyone
will miss Spencer’s fiery spirit, determination and
commitment to her work and friendship.
Spencer died after being taken off of life support. In
mid-December, Spencer unexpectedly became ill and was in a coma
since her hospitalization. She was surrounded by family and friends
at the time of her death.
Spencer impacted numerous students as a professor.
“She was hard and required a lot out of the class, but she
also was an interesting professor,” said Josephina Ortiz, a
fourth-year history student.
Spencer was scheduled to teach a class in the spring quarter,
which has been suspended at the moment.
The Latin American studies department was in the process of
making Spencer a permanent lecturer. She also hoped a disability
studies minor program would be established on campus.
There are no immediate plans for a memorial service at this
time. Spencer is survived by her parents, one brother and one
sister.
With reports from Menaka Fernando, Bruin Senior
Staff.