Saundra Weathers Banyard ’74

Born in Brooklyn, N.Y., Sandy moved at an early age to Englewood, N.J. She excelled at Dwight Morrow High School. In 1970 she entered Princeton’s second class of women and was one of its few African-American female students. She participated in voter-registration drives during a perilous time in the nation’s history. Sandy majored in sociology and earned a certificate in Afro-American studies. She was a member of the Association of Black Collegians, the gymnastics team, and the Glee Club. She tutored youth and served as a camp counselor.  

After Princeton, she moved to Chicago, worked at Jackson Park Hospital, and later became a Cook County sheriff. Sandy’s belief that the lack of education was one of society’s major ills led to her pursuit of a master’s degree at Governors State University and 25 years of distinguished service at the Community Colleges of Chicago, culminating in her becoming vice president of academic affairs.

Sandy died Sept. 25, 2010. She is survived by her husband, Carl; a sister; stepmother; two stepsons; and a granddaughter.

A fund has been established in Sandy’s honor. Donations may be made payable to: City Colleges of Chicago Foundation with “S.W. Banyard Memorial Scholarship Fund” noted in the memo section. They should be mailed to Mike Daigler, 226 W. Jackson, Chicago, IL 60606.