The college community is mourning the recent death of alumnus, adjunct professor and longtime broadcast journalist Steve Lattimore, who passed away Dec. 20 at 55 years old.

Lattimore received a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Columbia in 1988 and began teaching at the college in 2001, according to a Jan. 3 email from School of Media Arts Dean Eric Freedman.

In addition to teaching, Lattimore held many positions in the industry as a reporter, correspondent and producer in cities such as Greenville and Tulepo, Mississippi, Juneau, Alaska, Norfolk, Virginia, St. Louis and Milwaukee.

“Steve was known as an instructor who brought his considerable professional news experience into the classroom. Students found him demanding but always willing to share his expertise,” Freedman stated in the email.

Kiera Ellis, director of external affairs at the Cook County State Attorney’s Office and former student of Lattimore’s, was quoted in a Jan. 1 Chicago Tribune article describing him as a “direct and honest” professor who challenged students.

A GoFundMe page started by Lattimore’s daughter, Maya Tatum-Lattimore, to assist his family has raised $2,100 of its $3,000 goal in 13 days from 36 people. 

“He always told me I was the best but really he was,” Maya stated on the funding page. “I will miss so many special moments with my dad. Whenever he would see me he would have the biggest smile and ask me for a big hug. My family and I will miss him so much.”

A celebration of Lattimore’s life was held Dec. 29 at St. Thomas Apostle Catholic Parish, 5472 S. Kimbark Ave.

In addition to his daughter, Lattimore is survived by his wife Robin Tatum-Lattimore; sons Jeffrey and Aaron Wright; and three siblings.