UMBC Pays Tribute to Toliver

Ever since LaMont Toliver passed away unexpectedly on Feb. 28, the outpouring of emotion and remembrance in the UMBC community has been continuous.

Toliver, the assistant dean for undergraduate education and director of the Meyerhoff Scholars Program became a mentor and friend to many during his 22 years at UMBC, according to a tribute page set up for people to express their thoughts about him and his legacy.

Among the comments:

I love Mr. Toliver because he was 'that guy' for the students. He had a way of reaching the students on such a personal level...I remember him asking us what integrity meant. Being individuals who always wanted to be the best, we tried to use all of these complex and flowery definitions. But Mr Toliver broke it down simply. He said,' It is what you do when no one is watching!' - Oletha Minto '94.

The best thing I can say about LaMont Toliver is that he treated me, a guy who struggled through undergrad and didn't exactly meet the goals of the program, like I was Magna Cum Laude with a couple of PhDs...Jesus said we'll be judged by how we treat the least of these. The way Lamont Toliver treated me is the epitome of living up to that. - Robert Bonnette '97.

It's hard to know that someone so influential in my life is no longer going to be there. He helped guide me to reach the accomplishments I have achieved...This is a true loss far too soon of wonderful advisor and friend. I send my deepest condolences to his family and all those who loved him. - Tida Kumbalasiri '02.

Dr. Hrabowski often talks about how when some people enter a room they bring energy with them, while others drain it from the room. Lamont brought energy and sunshine with him wherever he went. Heaven is shining a little brighter now, but our world is dimmer without him. He, and his family, are in my prayers. - Kathy Raab, UMBC Staff.

I came into college as an angry, egotistical teenager. I was smart, but unwillingly to let anyone help me...until Mr. T. He spoke to me like no other adult has ever spoken to me before... He was an amazing mentor and friend. My heart aches with his passing but I remember something he always said - "Begin with the end in mind." And so even though my heart is heavy, we were so blessed to have him even for such a short amount of time. - Melissa Liriano '05.

A memorial service for Toliver will be held Wednesday, Mar. 7 at noon in the University Center ballroom.