Students, faculty and Ryerson community members gathered in the atrium of the Rogers Communications Centre (RCC) Wednesday to mourn the loss of Dana Lee, a former RTA School of Media professor, who died Friday.
Lee was well-known throughout the media school for his ability to teach complex concepts with simplicity, both in his classes and on his YouTube channel that currently has over 3,500 subscribers.
Faculty members and students shared their fondest memories of Lee. Many noted that he always had a smile on his face.
Lee began teaching at Ryerson University in 1994 and was also a graduate of the RTA program himself.
“We can take comfort knowing he leaves behind an incredible legacy,” said Charles Falzon, dean of the Faculty of Communication and Design.
Over 100 people, both staff and students, visited Lee at Sunnybrook Hospital last September. Many went to the hospital with homemade signs that had messages of appreciation for the beloved professor, who came out to speak to the group about the importance of taking care of your brain.
Lee’s dedication to his profession was recognized when he was awarded the 2017 Ryerson University President’s Award for Teaching Excellence. “Dana’s unwavering commitment and passion for teaching is truly extraordinary,” said Michael Coutanche, chair of the media school.
“I had the pleasure of having Dana Lee as a prof in first year and it’s not an exaggeration to say that he was one of the most amazing and intelligent teachers at Ryerson,” said Olivia Nashmi, a fourth-year student. “He just had such an infectious, positive spirit. Dana was always smiling and you couldn’t help but be in a better mood after one conversation with him.”
A slideshow showcasing pivotal moments of Lee’s life is being shown in the RCC atrium. Additionally, students and faculty members can sign a guest book in his honour with personal messages.