In the early 1980s I became a student at SIU-E. Not really knowing what major I wanted to pursue, I wandered in the Speech Communications Department and the very first person I met was Dan. He greeted me with a big smile and genuine warmth. I knew then that I was home and where I wanted to be. For the next three years Dan was my professor, my mentor and my friend. If I needed advice, he was there. If I was making a complete idiot of myself he didn't hesitate to let me know it. If I needed support, he was there. I loved Dan and the friend he was to me. After leaving SIU-E, our contact was sporadic and I have moments where I regret that it wasn't more. His compassion, humor, sharp with and love of nature, particularly his humpback whales are how I will remember Dan. To say Dan was special is understatement. God Bless you Dan.