Fond Farewell: Geological and Environmental Sciences Professor Karin Hoover

We are deeply saddened to share the news that Karin Hoover, who had taught in the Department of Geological and Environmental Sciences for more than 20 years, passed away March 30. She was 64.

Born March 18, 1957, she earned a bachelor’s degree in anthropology from the University of California, Davis in 1978. She then moved to Chico and began taking classes, leading to a part-time lecturer position and a second bachelor’s degree in geology in 1983. Hoover then went on to earn a master’s degree in geosciences from the University of Washington and a PhD in hydrology from Johns Hopkins University. She spent 12 years as a scientist, research scientist, and senior research scientist at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

Hoover returned to Chico and Chico State when she accepted a position as an assistant professor in 2000, and then became an associate professor in 2006. Though she retired in 2019, she continued teaching through the Faculty Early Retirement Program and was teaching “Geologic Hazards” and “Geology of Food and Health” this semester.

“Karin cared deeply for her students, she held high standards, and she more than held up the hydrogeology side of our department,” said Department Chair Todd Greene.

Hoover continued to share her expertise, sense of humor, and passion for teaching through the challenges of virtual learning, colleagues said. She had an unflagging commitment to high expectations for her students, both in her class and in their thesis work, and they appreciated her dedication.

“I always appreciated her strong commitment to science,” said Professor Russell Shapiro. “She didn’t waver about having students learn the proper way in hydrology even if it meant more math than they were comfortable with.”

“I only wish her students got to know the person outside of the classroom,” Greene added. “She was passionate about music, had a fantastic sense of humor, loved Mel Brooks movies, and had a sharp wit that made you glad she was on your team. I miss her laugh and smile.”

Professor Ann Bykerk-Kauffman admits she always admired how organized Hoover was, with an enviably neat desk and office. But even more memorably, her humor spiced up department meetings and hilarious cartoons on her office door were a welcome sight.

The University flag will be lowered Monday, April 26, in her memory. Services were held privately.