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Luz Stella Hoyos: a legacy of inspiration and commitment to science

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,” through which we commemorate Women’s Day, we honor Professor Luz Stella, who was part of the first edition of this initiative and whose legacy continues and will continue inspiring our community: her light remains for posterity!

Luz Stella Hoyos Giraldo, a retired professor from the Department of Biology at our beloved University, was truly an exemplary figure of how lives are transformed and dreams become reality within these halls. She left an indelible mark through her dedication, commitment, and passion for science!

Undoubtedly, her legacy will endure in her students, colleagues, loved ones, and all those privileged to know her. With deep affection and gratitude, we pay tribute to her memory, recognizing her tireless work and human warmth qualities that will continue inspiring those who see education as a path to envision and materialize new possible futures.

Professor Luz Stella was a pioneer in many ways, becoming the first emeritus researcher at the University of Cauca and one of the first women in Colombia to receive this lifelong recognition. Her passion for science and unwavering dedication led her to found the Genetic Toxicology and Cytogenetics Research Group, 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 and later specialized in Environmental Toxicology and Genetics at the University of Texas, Houston in 1991. Her pursuit of knowledge did not stop there: in 2003, she obtained a Master’s in Occupational Health, and in 2011, a Doctorate in Biomedical Sciences, both from the University of Antioquia. Additionally, she enhanced her education with a Diploma in Senior Management from ICESI University in 1997 and a Professional Coach Certification from Coaching Hall International in 2017.

Beyond her numerous academic achievements, she was undeniably a passionate teacher whose vocation transcended mere instruction. She not only shared her knowledge but also left a profound mark on her students, guiding them by example and cultivating essential values, boundless curiosity, and a love for learning. Her legacy went beyond the classroom, reflected in every life she touched and every future she helped shape.

Today, this institution, which is #HeritageForAll, honors her life, celebrating the immense contribution she made to the University of Cauca and to the country. Her memory will live on in every student she inspired, in every research project she promoted, in every colleague with whom she debated ideas and shared conversations, and in every member of the Unicauca community who knew her. Our university community extends its heartfelt support to her family and friends in this moment of loss, hoping they find comfort in the positive impact she left on so many people. Her love for education and unwavering dedication will always serve as a guiding light, for the legacy of women like Luz Stella Hoyos is not commemorated for a day, nor a month, it is celebrated for an entire lifetime!