By: Aisha Marilyn Abdulbary-Knotts | Staff Writer
Claudia Palanica (February 23, 1963 – April 21, 2026 ); Photo Via Dignity Memorial
The Lynchburg community is mourning the loss of Claudia Palanica, a longtime Dining Services employee and familiar presence in Burton Dining Hall, who passed away on April 21.
Palanica, who joined the university in 2013 and served as lead cashier, was widely known for her ability to recognize students, faculty and staff by name and for the relationships she built across campus. For many, she was more than an employee. She was a daily source of warmth and connection.
Jennifer Phillips, a family nurse practitioner in HornetCare, said her friendship with Palanica began shortly after she started working at the university in fall 2021.
“Claudia was a dear friend,” Phillips said. “I would often eat lunch with her and we grew to be close friends. My favorite thing about her was how she truly knew everyone. She remembered names and details. I would see her always making people smile with her words. The students, faculty and staff adored her. I’m very grateful to have been able to call her my friend.”
Colleagues in Dining Services described Palanica as a central figure in creating a welcoming environment.
Will Hounsell, assistant service manager in Dining Services, said her ability to connect with people stood out even in a busy dining hall.
“One thing that always amazed me about Claudia was how she knew everyone,” Hounsell said. “Our older point of sale system showed names when you tapped your badge, but there are still so many people, and she knew them all. She knew little things about them. She knew what games were coming up. She was definitely part of the connecting fabric that makes this university special, and dining services a welcoming place.”
Students also remembered Palanica for her kindness in everyday interactions.
Zalexia Bogan ’26 said that even without knowing her personally, Palanica made a lasting impression.
“She would always greet me with a smile that could light up the room,” Bogan said. “She would always joke that my ID wasn’t working just to see my reaction. I am sad to see her go so soon. She will always be missed and forever loved by everyone.”
Tracy McCray, Westover manager, and Akalah Brimm recalled Palanica as someone who was deeply connected and attentive. They said she was well-informed, built strong relationships and consistently showed care for students.
“One thing I loved about her is how much she loved the students,” they said. “She was always so friendly.”
Shaun Dearden, director of Dining Services, said Palanica’s impact extended far beyond her role.
“On Tuesday, April 21, Dining Services lost a beloved team member, Claudia Palanica,” Dearden said. “A fixture in our community since 2013 and our lead cashier at Burton Dining Hall, Claudia was the face that greeted nearly everyone who walked through our doors. It was truly amazing how she knew so many by name and built genuine relationships with students, athletes, staff and guests alike. Claudia embodied what it means to be a member of the Hornet family. Her impact on our campus community as a whole is lasting. She will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”
Palanica’s presence was felt in the daily routines of campus life, where small moments of recognition and kindness made a lasting difference.
Her colleagues and students say those moments will not be forgotten.
A celebration of life for Palanica will be held on Monday, May 4th, at 3 PM in Snidow Chapel. This service will also be live streamed.
