The College of Criminology and Criminal Justice is saddened to announce the passing of College alumna, Dona Cormier, B.S. ’85. Dona was extremely dedicated to the College and Florida State University, along with her church and community.
“Philanthropy fills a void that work can’t do,” Dona once explained. “It’s kind of self-perpetuating. I got the work because of getting the FSU degree. It’s now my job to help my fellow man.”
Dona came to FSU while working with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. After graduating, “the work” she referred to was serving as Leon County’s first female Road Deputy, where she worked in crime scene investigation and crime analysis for many years. She attributed much of her career success to the educational foundation she received at FSU’s College of Criminology and Criminal Justice.
When Dona and husband, Ken, B.S. ’79, began drafting their wills, they immediately turned to philanthropy. Having decided to include FSU academics and athletics in their estate plans, they reached out to the FSU Foundation for assistance. Along with other gifts, they established The Dona R. Cormier Internship in Criminology Endowment to provide support for the College of Criminology and Criminal Justice internship program. Dona’s valued participation as both a student intern and an internship sponsor held significant meaning to her.
Prior to her passing, Dona had already made endowment contributions, wanting to witness her bequest come to fruition before she died. She was thrilled at the success and growth of the internship program that she witnessed before she passed. “It just enlightens your heart,” Dona said at the time. “It’s a double blessing — for those who give, as well as those impacted.”
“Dona’s commitment to the College and helping students move from the classroom to the field was incredible,” said Dean Thomas Blomberg. “Her joy, dedication, and commitment to helping our graduates succeed will be deeply missed.”
Dona is survived by her sisters and brothers-in law, Wanda and Darrell Abrahams of Tyler Texas, Pamela and Kenneth Chaumont of Lake Charles Louisiana; two sisters-in-law, Gaynell Andrews of Bentonville Arkansas, Theresa Cormier of Lake Charles Louisiana; three brothers-in-law Carlton (Priscilla) Cormier of Hot Springs Village Arkansas, Darrell (Sandra) Cormier of Westlake Louisiana, Lyle (Christie) Cormier of Moss Bluff Louisiana; and a host of nephews and nieces.