The University of Cauca pays a heartfelt posthumous tribute to retired professor Luz Stella Hoyos Giraldo, who left an indelible mark on the academic and scientific community. As part of our campaign "It’s not a day, it’s not a month, it’s a lifetime", with which we commemorate International Women’s Day, we reaffirm our recognition of Professor Luz Stella. She was part of the first edition of this initiative, and her legacy continues—and will continue—to inspire our community: her light will shine for eternity!

Luz Stella Hoyos Giraldo, a retired professor from our beloved University’s Department of Biology, was a true example of how lives are transformed and dreams become reality within these halls. She left an enduring impact through her dedication, commitment, and passion for science. Undoubtedly, her legacy will live on in her students, colleagues, loved ones, and all those who had the privilege of knowing her. With deep affection and gratitude, we honor her memory, recognizing her tireless work and warmhearted nature—qualities that will continue to inspire those who see education as a pathway to shaping and realizing new futures.

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Professor Luz Stella was a pioneer in many ways, as she became the first Emeritus Researcher at the University of Cauca and one of the first women in Colombia to receive this lifelong distinction. Her passion for science and unwavering dedication led her to found the Research Group in Genetic and Cytogenetic Toxicology, from which she made valuable contributions to the fields of biology and occupational health.

Her academic journey was as diverse as it was admirable. She earned her degree in Biology from the University of Antioquia in 1975, later specializing in Environmental Toxicology and Genetics at the University of Texas, Houston, in 1991. Her pursuit of knowledge did not stop there—she obtained a Master’s in Occupational Health in 2003 and a Ph.D. in Biomedical Sciences in 2011, both from the University of Antioquia. Additionally, she strengthened her expertise with a Diploma in Senior Management from ICESI University in 1997 and a Professional Coaching Certification from Coaching Hall International in 2017.

Beyond her numerous academic achievements, she was undeniably an inspiring and passionate educator whose vocation extended far beyond teaching. She not only shared her knowledge but also left a deep and lasting impression on her students, guiding them by example and instilling essential values, an endless curiosity, and a love for learning. Her impact reached far beyond the classroom, shaping every life she touched and every future she helped build.

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Today, this institution, a Heritage for All, honors her life and celebrates the immense contributions she made to the Alma Mater of Cauca and to the country. Her memory will live on in every student she inspired, in every research endeavor she championed, in every colleague with whom she exchanged ideas and shared discussions, and in every member of the University of Cauca who had the privilege of knowing her. Our university community stands in solidarity with her family and friends in this moment of loss, hoping they find solace in the profound impact she had on so many lives.

Her love for education and her unwavering dedication will always serve as a guiding light, for the legacy of women like Luz Stella Hoyos is not honored in just one day or one month—it is honored for a lifetime!

Written by: Communication Management Center