GREENSBURG, PA- A memorial service will be held, at Seton Hill College for Zoe Dorsa, founder of the Seton Hill College Speech and Theatre Department, on Thursday, January 25, 2001 at 5:00 p.m. in St. Joseph Chapel. A reception will follow in Lowe Dining Hall.

Dorsa, a member of the Class of 1939, died Saturday, December 23, 2000. She was the founder of the College’s speech and theatre department, which later became known as the theatre department. It was her vision and persistence that led to the design of a communication major that has become an integral part of the College’s curriculum.

During her years of teaching at Seton Hill, she was an administrator and mentor to many students who sought her counsel and then stayed in touch with her through the years. In the 1970s, Dorsa served as Dean of the Students during a time when student expectations of college life changed dramatically. Undaunted, she was able as Dean to bring a renewed level of respect and professionalism to the office.

Zoe Dorsa celebrated her 60th reunion at Seton Hill College in June 1999, where she was honored as the recipient of the College’s Distinguished Alumna Leadership Award. She was beloved by all her students and colleagues and served as an inspiration to all who knew her.

Zoe Dorsa resided in Oceanside, California. Her brother Lawrence Dorsa and his wife Betty, also residents of California, survive her.