Fond Farewell: Social Work Graduate Student Angela Cannon

Graduate student Angela Cannon, who was pursuing her master’s degree in social work, passed away Saturday, March 2. She was 37.

Born April 6, 1981, Cannon earned her bachelor’s degree in sociology from University of California, Davis. She was admitted to Chico State last fall to work toward her MSW and had already made a remarkable impression on her faculty members.

Professor Susan Roll taught Cannon in her “Diversity and Social Justice” online course this semester and said even though their interactions were primarily outside the realm of a traditional classroom, Cannon’s passion for social work and social justice was readily apparent.

“As a mother, Angela was interested in not only learning to be a skilled social worker but also a good role model for her children,” Roll said. “She was honest and thoughtful in the online discussions with her classmates and really wanted to learn how we can be advocates in our communities.”

Roll said Angela’s classmates want her to be remembered for being incredibly supportive and kind.

“She was funny, optimistic and very thoughtful,” Roll said. “She always had a smile on her face. She consistently told everyone ‘We’ve got this’—she was the class cheerleader.”

In addition to her graduate studies, Cannon had been working as a mental health technician in a supportive housing program. 

She is survived by her two sons. We will share details on services when we know them. The University flag will be lowered Monday in her memory.