Ryan cited Higgins’ accomplishments of organizing activities including events coinciding with NCAA tournaments and bowl games, dozens of Founder’s Days, visits from dignitaries such as former Soviet Union leader Mikhail Gorbachev and the emperor and empress of Japan, and an Olympic Torch Relay, among many other events.
Ryan shared stories from a book of memories that the Office of Major Events presented Higgins as a retirement gift.
An colleague in Students Affairs wrote: “I have so many memories of Pam, but the threads that connect them all are her incredible professionalism, kindness, hard work, dedication and expertise. Pam is a friend to everyone – no matter where you sit in the organization. Her seemingly boundless energy, drive and loyalty are to be admired. UVA is a better place because of Pam Higgins and those of us who know her are better people because of her.”