Fullerton College lost Toni DuBois-Walker, Vice President of Student Services on Friday, Nov. 7 after a three-year battle with cancer.

Friends, colleagues and family members came together on Friday, Jan. 23 to celebrate her life and contributions to Fullerton College.

The memorial included musical performances from the FC Concert Choir as well as faculty members Joe Jewell and Mike Scott.

Speakers included President Rajen Vurdien, Lisa Campbell, dean of counseling, DuBois’ sister, Gina Piane and DuBois’ assistant, Sharon Kelly.

They recounted stories of life with DuBois at work, at home and with her family.

“Toni was our leader,” Piane said. “She was the hub of all family decision making.”

Piane discussed DuBois’ early medical problems with her eyesight, providing an example of the kind of strength and resilience she carried from an early age.

“The most important thing she gave us was that she made us feel appreciated for all the hard work that is done everyday for our students,” said Rena Martinez Stluka, FC registrar.

DuBois served Fullerton College for six and a half years, her last day on campus was Oct. 6.

Prior to her position at FC, she served as dean of financial aid, EOPS and veterans services at Long Beach City College.

Born in Chicago, DuBois first visited California on a family trip to Long Beach.

She later went on to attend CSULB where she earned her bachelor’s degree in 1976 in radio television and speech communication.

DuBois is survived by her husband John Walker, her daughters Kristen and Nicole DuBois and her parents Ed and Mary Piane.

“The last thing she told us was how proud of me she was,” said Nicole DuBois-Mcewen, DuBois’ daughter. “She was always proud of everything my sister and I did.”

The family requests that any donations in her name to be given to the Fullerton College newly renamed Chris Lamm and Toni DuBois-Walker Memorial Food Bank.

For more information on donations email [email protected].