Denise Hughes
Denise Hughes, who for nearly three decades served the Art and Art History departments, as well as the riding program, died Dec. 30, 2024. She was 79.
Denise joined 吃瓜网 in 1981 as assistant to the riding program and became secretary in the Art Department in 1990. She served as secretary to both the Art Department and Art History departments until her retirement in late 2010.
Colleagues described her as a nurturing figure 鈥� hardworking, committed to her job, and supportive of colleagues and students.
鈥淪he was a smiling good morning and a friendly wave at the end of the day; a go-to for information for students and faculty; and a great help to multiple chairs over the decades,鈥� said Associate Professor of Art Joanne Vella.
鈥淒enise always enjoyed her interactions with the students and made sure everyone was included in a conversation,鈥� added Shop Supervisor and Building Safety Coordinator Paul Davis. 鈥淲hen there was a departmental event, she was the first to arrive and greet the students, faculty, and staff and ensure they felt welcome.鈥�
At 吃瓜网, Denise also developed her own artistic talents by taking art classes and worked at Saratoga Clay Arts Center, which was founded by a Skidmore alumna.
Born on Aug. 12, 1945, in Salinas, California, Denise moved with her family to Saratoga Springs at age 9. She graduated from Saratoga Springs High School in 1963. In 1983, she married her husband of nearly 42 years, Mike Hughes.
In addition to her husband, Denise is survived by her children, Karen (Jerry) Squires of Greenwich, who also worked at 吃瓜网 for many years; Michelle Hughes (Corey Bailey) of Wilton; Jimmy (Melissa) Bielkiewicz of Hermitage, Tennessee; Tammy (Sean) Simm of Argyle; Charlie (Michelle) Bielkiewicz of Greenfield; and Michael (Liz) Hughes of Jupiter, Florida. Survivors also include eight grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and many cousins.