Dr. Gina Briefs-Elgin

Gina is dearly missed at Highlands and especially at the writing center, which we now call the Regina Briefs-Elgin Writing Center. Her sweet spirit and her unfailing optimism touched many people here. Students still remember her fondly, and I miss my colleague and friend.

Gina had the purest heart of anybody I knew while attending Highlands. It was always a pleasure to be near her, and I admired her optimism and dedication. A beautiful human being.

Every time I hear my little chimes ring that Gina sent me as a thankyou for working in the Writing Center, I think of her. My husband hung them right outside our bedroom window, and though the wind doesn't blow much in Oregon, once in a while they sing out and I see Gina's face and feel her blessings. I didn't know she had died until a fellow-writing-center friend told me today. Oh, what a loss. My heart has a hole in it right now, but I'm also sad for all the students and fellow-teachers...

I was an international student at NMHU and although I did not take a class with Dr. Briefs, I often had the chance to talk to her. She was the kindest person and the most helpful teacher. I was stuck with my thesis since it had countless grammatical errors. Even though Dr. Briefs was not in my thesis committee (I was not even in her department at that time), when I approached her for her help towards the end of the semester when things were all hectic, she offered her help to me and read the...

Dear Lee,
I just learned this sad news, which stops me in my tracks even as it takes me back many years to our last gathering in Santa Fe not long after you two began your life there. I can only imagine the strength you found to get through these months since your great loss. Please know that a distant friend (in years) wishes you yet more strength, such as Gina gave to others. I have a beautiful photograph of you and Gina with baby and Mrs. Briefs (1984?) and now there is a lovely...

My condolences, Xaver and Lee. I’d known Gina for the past 20 years as a professor, mentor, colleague, and friend. Her legacy will by long lasting. She was remarkably sensitive, considerate, and respectful of her students and peers—among whom she distinguished herself. Gina was more than my professional advisor; she was also a role model and constant reminder to be kind as an educator. I always found inspiration in her humanity and her spirit touches me still.

Dear Xaver and Lee,
Gina was such a joy and inspiration for me. I knew her at the Street Outreach Program. She always had such a beautiful and entertaining way of telling the tales of her life. Her presence in my life will be greatly missed. I looked forward to her every volunteer shift! She had such a true lust for life that I very muched admired and aspire to. She was a blessing in my life and the life of all the clients and workers at Street Outreach. I'm very sorry for your loss.

Dear Lee,
We were shocked and saddened to hear of Gina's passing. May your memories help ease your grief.
Please accept our deepest sympathy.

Lee and Xaver, I have just learned of Gina’s passing. Gina was one of the best people I have known, and it was an honor and pleasure to work with her. Lee, I only met you a couple of times, years ago, and sometimes wished I knew you more. Xaver, I knew you as a little kid who sometimes accompanied your mom to the Writing Center at Highlands, where I worked as her colleague, and where you steadfastly defended your right to your own name, without an “i.” More power to you. To you both, I know...