The San Diego State University, College of Health and Human Services, and the School of Nursing mourn the recent loss of Dr. Dorothy Zirkle. Dr. Zirkle served as an Instructor for the past eight years. During that time, she served as the concentration chair for the Nursing Leadership in Health Care Systems Master’s program, taught in the RN to BSN program, and led several foreign exchange programs with partner nursing programs in Switzerland. As the concentration chair, she was given the assignment of initiating the Nursing Leadership Master’s program at the SDSU-Imperial Valley campus, which she accomplished with her usual gusto.
She will be remembered for her commitment to students and her love of nursing and health care. Her commitment to her family, especially over the past few years, is remarkable and demonstrates the combined roles of mother, daughter, nurse, and care giver. Her teaching and mentorship will leave a lasting impact on a generation of nurses and nurse leaders. Our hearts and compassion go out to her daughters. The family has shared the following:
“No services are being planned immediately due to the ongoing pandemic and the need for us all to follow protocol to protect each other. When it is safe, we will plan a celebration of life worthy of our Mama.” Cards and words of condolences can be sent to:
The Zirkle Family
P.O. Box 1033
Spring Valley, CA 91979
Sincerely,
The Administration, Faculty, Staff, and Students of the School of Nursing and
The College of Health and Human Services
San Diego State University
